Published: March 4, 2026
MONROVIA — Top European scouts are in Liberia to identify promising young footballers during a U-19 Talent Hunt scouting program that began this week and runs through March 5.
Among them is Giovanni Gullo, a seasoned European scout with experience at clubs including AS Monaco, AC Milan and OGC Nice.
The scouting mission is led by Liberian intermediary Emma Jarnyneh, head of Poise Entertainment, which is hosting a series of football friendlies as part of the evaluation process.
The program offers what organizers describe as a rare opportunity for young Liberian players to showcase their abilities before scouts with direct links to top European clubs. For many participants, it represents a potential pathway to professional football abroad.
Also in attendance is Nikola Vracevic, head of youth scouting at Serbian giants Red Star Belgrade. A UEFA B License holder, Vracevic has led youth scouting at the club since 2023 and is in Liberia as a direct representative monitoring emerging talents.
Other notable participants include Dimitri Strava, owner of D&S Sports, and UK-based agent Mayossar Fedil.
In an interview with reporters, Jarnyneh said the initiative aims to identify promising young Liberian players for potential opportunities in major European and international leagues.
Jarnyneh, who said she previously played for Ghanaian club Genesis FC and her high school team in the United States as an attacking midfielder, also manages Liberian music star Jzyno.
She said the scouts have already identified several standout players but cautioned that age requirements and other factors could present challenges. However, she expressed confidence that at least two players would secure scouting opportunities through the program.
Speaking at the tournament’s opening ceremony; Youth and Sports Minister Cornelia Kruah praised the organizers and expressed confidence in the potential of Liberia’s young footballers. She reaffirmed President Joseph N. Boakai’s commitment to ensuring Liberian athletes compete on the global stage.
Kruah also referenced Liberia’s football legacy, highlighting former President George Weah, who was named FIFA World Player of the Year in 1995, and former international striker James Debbah. She said the ministry is determined to reposition Liberia among Africa’s and the world’s competitive footballing nations.
Deputy Youth and Sports Minister G. Andy Quamie urged the young athletes to remain disciplined and focused, emphasizing that long-term success in football requires strong character both on and off the field.
Eight teams are participating in the competition: Desmois FC, Watanga FC, Discoveries FC, Soul Clinic FC, Bendu FC, Benzard FC, Wadi Talents Kids and Cece United. Each team registered 17 players, bringing the total number of participants to 136 athletes between the ages of 15 and 17.
Scouts are evaluating midfielders, wingers, defenders and strikers based on technical ability, agility, tactical awareness, discipline and overall performance.
Organizers say the program provides young Liberian players with rare exposure to top European scouting networks and a genuine opportunity to take their first steps onto the international stage.
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