da betsson： Chelsea have reportedly appointed former Hull City and Nigeria international Seyi Olofinjana to talent management role in the African continent.
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Chelsea set up an African recruitment teamGot on board Olofinjana to head operationsHas extensive experience in the continentWHAT HAPPENED?
According to the 44-year-old Olofinjana, who has extensive experience both on the field and in football administration, will be instrumental in identifying and nurturing young African talents for the club. He earned 56 caps for Nigeria and enjoyed a successful club career in Europe. Between 2004 and 2008, he played 147 matches and scored 18 goals for Wolverhampton Wanderers. His career also included stints at Championship sides Cardiff City and Sheffield Wednesday, as well as Premier League teams Stoke City and Hull.
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After retiring in 2014 following a brief period in Norway, Olofinjana transitioned into coaching and football development roles. He served in various capacities at Wolverhampton Wanderers, including as a loans and pathways manager. His administrative acumen was further demonstrated during his tenure as Sporting Director at Grasshoppers Zurich in Switzerland until 2022. Olofinjana is a well-qualified manager, holding a UEFA Pro Coaching License.
ROLE AT CHELSEA
In his new role at Chelsea, Olofinjana will oversee recruitment recommendations across Africa, working closely with a newly appointed scout dedicated to the continent. By appointing Olofinjana, Chelsea aims to tap into the vast pool of African football talent more efficiently and effectively, creating a direct pipeline to the London club and Strasbourg. He will also look to enhance the players' experiences and aid their adaptation to new environments.
DID YOU KNOW?
Olofinjana's journey began in Nigeria with Crown FC and Kwara United before moving to Norwegian club SK Brann in 2003, and subsequently to Wolves in England a year later. His deep-rooted connections and understanding of African football will be crucial in his new role at Chelsea, helping to streamline the pathway for African players to reach the European stage. He has been instrumental in developing an academy and procuring talent, including Taiwo Awoniyi, who moved to Liverpool in 2015 and currently plays for Nottingham Forest.