The Championship game between Bournemouth and Huddersfield in December 2020 was almost over. The hosts were up 5-0. Jason Tindall, the head coach of the guests, decided to give one of the academy products a chance. Born in Bermuda, winger Ajani Burchall, aged 16, one month and seven days, was brought on with just a few minutes left; it made him the fifth youngest debutant in the Championship this millennial (overview).
“I didn’t think that that would happen,” the forward said after the game. It was the second surprise within just a couple of days. Burchall received a surprise nomination for the game just after school while he was sitting at the barber. Initially, he actually missed the call. “You been good recently; we want to have you on the bench tomorrow,” the head coach said to him later. The talent did not have many moments to shine during his debut, just one, to be precise. But that moment was over in a heartbeat as he was fouled.
Talents Calendar 2020: Here is how the players have developed
That Kluiverth Aguilar would move to Europe was already certain last year. Signed by Manchester City, the right-back is currently under contract at Lommel SK, which also is part of the City Group.
For Xavi Simons the last season was a mixed back. First close to the first team, the talented attacking midfielder has been ignored by Mauricio Pochettino and is currently considering a transfer to another club.
Mexiko, Canada or England: For now Marcelo Flores the talented midfielder has opted for Mexico’s U20 but it is expected that Flores will await a final decision as Canada remains in the mix to secure the services of the 18-year-old.
Hannibal Mejbri is the third player in the calendar to switch national teams. Previously with France, the Man United talent has since made the switch to Tunisia.
Not surprising Caden Clark will join RB Leipzig this winter. This year the 18-year-old played his first full season with New York Red Bulls with whom he was eliminated in the first round of the MLS Cup Playoffs.
Ísak Bergmann Jóhannesson | Iceland | Market value: €4.5 million
Yusuf Demir has fulfilled his wish and joined FC Barcelona where he has already made his debut for the first team.
“I don’t know if I have done well,” the forward said after the game. “They were all bigger than me. It was difficult to find my orientation because I am smaller and younger,” Burchall said after his first few minutes. “My next step is to continue to show strong performances and to be more often on the bench. I hope I will be nominated again.” Two games later, he was in the squad again but did not feature in the game.
Aston Villa beat out significant competition in the Premier League
One year later, the situation has not changed much. Furthermore, Burchall is no longer playing for the Cherries but for Aston Villa, who signed the forward in July. For a significant fee, as Bournemouth announced. The Villans beat out considerable competition from the Premier League. Arsenal, Leeds, West Ham, and Crystal Palace were also interested in a transfer. Before leaving the Cherries, Burchall said that he wanted to take a different path to complete his path on social media.
“My goal is to become a regular starter in the Premier League or another top league abroad,” Burchall said in an interview back home. The forward is one of 11 players listed from Bermuda with a market value (overview). With a market value of €100,000, he is the fifth most valuable Bermudan in the database, along with the other English-based players Kane Crichlow (Watford) and Willie Clemons (Stowmarket). Burchall left the British overseas territory when he was 12 after he was convinced at a trial out at Bournemouth. Before that, he played for the Bermudan first division side North Village Rams.
Gavi, Moukoko & Co.: The most valuable players born in 2004
11 Shola Shoretire – Manchester United – Market value: €3m
Burchall, who, because of his mother, is a Manchester City fan, plays for the Villans in the U18 Premier League. This season he has scored three goals in four games right now; however, he is missing time with an injury. Just a few weeks ago, the first division club signed him to a professional contract—after being in the club for just four months. “We believe that he has the potential, which he will reach through hard work,” academy manager Mark Harrison said about Bruchall, who can play on the wing and as an attacking midfielder. The Guardianselected the player for their Next Generation list and described him as a quick and intelligent dribbler. “We are curious to see how he develops,” Harrison said.
From December 1 to 24, we introduce new players from different countries born in 2003. Area managers, users, and data scouts come into play as experts throughout the series. You can follow all those players by adding them to your TM watchlist.