Manchester United appear to be stepping up their efforts to find the next breakout African star, with scouts present at the recent AFCON U17 clash between Morocco and Zambia, as reported by Scouts in Attendance on X.
United’s director of recruitment, Christopher Vivell, has a strong track record in unearthing talent from the continent, especially in Zambian football.
During his time at RB Salzburg, Vivell was instrumental in securing deals for both Patson Daka and Enock Mwepu—players who would go on to shine in Europe.
That Zambian connection appears to be active once again.
16-year-old forward, Abel Salim Nyirongo, caught the eye in the AFCON U17 tournament.
The teenage striker plays his club football at Atletico Lusaka and has been earning rave reviews for his performances.
Abel Salim Nyirongo scored and picked up the Man of the Match award in Zambia’s 4-1 thrashing of Tanzania, further boosting his rising reputation.
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Highly regarded in Zambian football circles, Nyirongo has already been dubbed a potential successor to Daka.
With his ability to play across the frontline, hold up play, and find the net from a variety of situations, the youngster offers a well-rounded attacking profile suited to modern football.
At 6ft tall, he combines physicality with intelligent movement and an eye for goal.
Nyirongo can strike with either foot, link play effectively, and consistently threatens defenders by timing his runs into dangerous areas.
His positional awareness and versatility allow him to drop into midfield when needed or exploit space down the flanks.
Manchester United have a long history of identifying and nurturing young talent, and their interest in Nyirongo could signal a fresh commitment to expanding their reach into African markets.
The club is understood to be monitoring his development closely, with early indications suggesting that a move could be on the cards should he continue to shine on the international stage.
With Europe’s top clubs beginning to circle, United may look to act fast to avoid missing out on a player who could follow in the footsteps of the Zambian greats who came before him.
#mufc scout at Morocco U17 v Zambia U17 in #AFCONU17 tonight
United director of recruitment Christopher Vivell has superb contacts in Zambian football – signed Patson Daka & Enock Mwepu at #rbsalzburg
16yo Zambia FW Abel Salim Nyirongo (goal & MoM) shone in 4-1 win v Tanzania pic.twitter.com/SDXfOZqHH8
— Scouts in Attendance (@scoutsattending) April 3, 2025
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