Kenya U-20 defender being tracked by Real Madrid explains how moving to Spain has elevated his game

Kenya U-20 defender being tracked by Real Madrid explains how moving to Spain has elevated his game

Mark Kinyanjui 10:45 - 05.12.2024

Wanjala has continued to move fro strength to strength over the last one year, and is now reportedly attracting the interest of Real Madrid's Youth team, Castilla

Kenya U20 captain Amos Wanjala is living proof that hard work and determination can set the foundation for a footballer’s rise to the top. 

Having recently signed with Spanish fifth-tier side Athletic Club Torrellano, the 19-year-old defender has opened up about how his move to Spain has impacted his career.

 Wanjala, who has drawn inspiration from elite defenders like Antonio Rudiger, Virgil van Dijk, and William Saliba, is already making waves, with reports suggesting that La Liga giants Real Madrid are keeping tabs on his development.

Wanjala’s journey began at St. Antony’s Boys Kitale, where he honed his skills before securing a scholarship to Nastic Sports Academy.

 His stint at the academy set the stage for his professional debut in Spain earlier this year, a move he credits with significantly improving both his footballing and personal development.

“There has been so much to learn in the short period that I have been here,” Wanjala told Telecomasia.

 “As a person, I have really grown—not just in terms of how I look at football, but life in general. In football, I have improved a lot in my defending, communication, and overall development of my skills.”

Wanjala’s aspirations are clear: he aims to become one of the best defenders in the world, emulating his role models Rudiger, van Dijk, and Saliba.

“My dream is to play at the highest levels of football,” he shared with Telecomasia. “I love how they play, their leadership, and their dedication on the field, which inspires me every day. One day, I would want to be the best player in my position, and with hard work and determination, it is possible.”

Since moving to Spain, Wanjala has settled in seamlessly, using the opportunity to grow his game.

“It is a really positive move for me because I believe it will set the foundation for what lies ahead in my career. I love it so far, and I have settled in quite well. I believe the good start is a sign of better things to come. I want to learn as much as I can, improve myself, and get ready for the next step,” Wanjala stated.

His performances in Spain have reportedly drawn attention from Real Madrid scouts, further highlighting his potential to break into Europe’s elite football ranks.

As captain of Kenya’s U20 team, Wanjala played a pivotal role in their historic qualification for the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations, the first for the nation. He remains optimistic about their chances in the tournament.

“We are all proud as a team, and now the ambition is to go to the Cup of Nations, perform well, show what we can do as a country, and achieve something,” Wanjala said. “We have a good team, and we have what it takes. We have been together since the Under-18 level, and I believe this will give us more strength.”

At just 19, Amos Wanjala is a beacon of hope for Kenyan football. His rapid rise, coupled with his determination to excel, positions him as a future star not only for Kenya but potentially on the global stage. 

Whether or not Real Madrid’s interest materialises, Wanjala’s focus remains on improving his game and leading Kenya to greater heights.

With the U20 AFCON on the horizon and his career gaining momentum, the young defender’s story is one of inspiration, ambition, and undeniable talent.

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