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Gambian Wunderkind Francis Gomez Left Out of U-17 Squad Amid Club Dispute
AC Horsens Blocks Rising Star’s Participation in U-17 AFCON
Gambian football sensation Francis Gomez has been notably excluded from coach Yahya Manneh’s 24-man U-17 squad following Danish club AC Horsens’ refusal to release the talented winger for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
From WAFU Hero to Club Commitment
The 17-year-old attacking midfielder made headlines during the WAFU A qualifiers, scoring 3 crucial goals for the Baby Scorpions before his high-profile move from boyhood club Sibanor United to Danish Superliga side AC Horsens.
Coach Manneh announced his final squad selection on March 23, with the team primarily composed of players who secured bronze for The Gambia in the WAFU A tournament held in Thies, Senegal.
Club vs Country Dilemma
The situation highlights the growing tension between national team commitments and club obligations for young African talents playing in European leagues. AC Horsens’ decision to retain Gomez comes as the Danish club prepares for crucial fixtures in their domestic season.
This development represents a significant blow to Gambia’s U-17 AFCON aspirations, as Gomez was considered one of the team’s most dangerous attacking threats following his standout performances in the qualifiers.
This article is based on original reporting from Gambiana. For complete details and additional context, please visit the original source.
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