- Bundesliga powerhouse Bayern Munich has successfully secured the promising talent of Australian teenager Nestory Irankunda
- The 17-year-old winger is known for his blistering pace and dynamic style of play
- He will officially join Bayern Munich on a long-term deal starting in July 2024
In a significant move that has captured the attention of football enthusiasts, Bundesliga powerhouse Bayern Munich has successfully secured the promising talent of Australian teenager Nestory Irankunda.
The 17-year-old winger, known for his blistering pace and dynamic style of play, will officially join Bayern Munich on a long-term deal starting in July 2024, coinciding with his 18th birthday.
Irankunda’s journey to the upper echelons of football is a story of resilience and determination.
Born in a Tanzanian refugee camp to Burundian parents, he moved to Perth as an infant before settling in Adelaide, Australia, where he discovered his passion for the beautiful game.
Having represented his adopted country at the under-17 level, Irankunda’s talents have not gone unnoticed, earning him a coveted spot on the bench for two Socceroos international friendlies this year.
Nestroy Irankuda. Photo/YouTube
Expressing his excitement, Irankunda shared that it feels unbelievable for him so far that he made it to Bayern. It was a tough grind for him since many top clubs, including EPL clubs were gunning for him.
“It’s really unbelievable. There were multiple teams interested, and I had to make the choice, and I made the choice of Bayern Munich,” Reuters reports.
“There was obviously offers from English Premier League teams but my dad said he supported Bayern. There was a photo he showed me in the refugee camp, in Bayern Munich kit, so I went off that, to make my parents and my dad proud.”
Despite enticing offers from English Premier League teams, Irankunda’s decision was influenced by familial ties and a desire to make his parents proud, particularly his father, who had shown support for Bayern Munich even during their time in a refugee camp.
The young winger made his debut for Adelaide United at the tender age of 15 in January of last year. While initially featuring mainly as a substitute, Irankunda’s performances quickly garnered attention, particularly due to a series of spectacular goals that showcased his extraordinary talent.
Bayern Munich’s Director of Youth Development, Jochen Sauer, expressed the club’s satisfaction in signing Irankunda.
Sauer stated that the 17-year-old wonderkid is very fast and strong on the pitch which is why Bayern went for him.
“Nestory is an extremely quick winger, a strong dribbler, and finisher with good drive towards goal. We’re convinced by his potential and that he will take the next steps with us,” he said.
Nestroy Irankuda. Photo/The Times
Bayern monitored Irankunda for some time, and the agreement with Adelaide United solidified their commitment to nurturing the burgeoning talent.
The financial details of the transfer were not disclosed, but the move signifies Bayern Munich’s strategic approach to youth development and acquiring promising talents from around the globe.
Irankunda’s journey will continue with Adelaide United for the remainder of the season, providing him with valuable experience in the A-League before making the transition to the German powerhouse.
The question remains whether Bayern Munich plans to integrate Irankunda into the first team immediately or if the youngster will spend time honing his skills with Bayern Munich II.
Regardless of the path chosen, the football world eagerly anticipates witnessing the next steps in Nestory Irankunda’s promising career under the guidance of one of Europe’s footballing giants.
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