Ghanaian winger Samuel Pimpong has been among arguably the best signing of the 2023/24 season following his stellar performance since his arrival at Mukura Victory Sports. The Primus National League opponents are really feeling him.
The tricky left-footed player has netted four league goals and provided four assists as they sit fourth on the table.
Pimpong has lightening pace, incredible footwork and, above all, ability to score goals and give the final magical pass.
ALSO READ: Pimpong scores brace as Mukura beat Sunrise FC in six-goal thriller
Having previously played in one of Italy’s biggest youth tournaments, the 24-year-old takes us through his football journey as he looks set to do what it takes to get to the top of his career.
Weekend Sport caught up with the Mukura Victory Sports hot shot for an interview.
Below are excerpts:
Tell us about yourself
My name is Samuel Pimpong. I was born in Accra, Ghana, on January 4, 2000. But I am originally from Larteh, Akuapem, a mountainous area which is like an hour drive away from Accra
How did your career begin?
I started playing football at a tender age of six. I was also spotted very early; I played for youth clubs and, by the time I was 15, studying in secondary school, I was already playing in the Ghana second division league for Dreams FC.
Who was your football role model growing up?
It is definitely Lionel Messi. He inspires me a lot and, looking at how he moves with the ball when he is playing from the right flank, I have similar qualities.
Which clubs have you played for?
I played for Dreams FC, Berekum Chelsea, United FC in the United Arab Emirates and now I am here at Mukura Victory Sports.
You were part of the Berekum Chelsea U19 team that beat the likes of AC Milan in Italy’s 2019 Viarragio Youth Cup before losing to Genoa. How was the experience?
It was a very nice tournament and a great experience for me. I took part in all our games, it pained me we couldn't get through to the semis. I had some offers from a host of Italian clubs but the deals didn't go through.
How did you come to Rwanda?
I came to Rwanda through a Ghanaian agent. He has known me for 10 years when I was a kid and he decided to bring me here.
How is life at Mukura?
It has been a fantastic experience so far; we have a fantastic management and technical team led by coach Lotfi Afahmia, a very good coach. Competition here is very high among the players. You always have to churn out good performance week in week out.
What is the secret behind your current form?
I believe I have adapted so well that is the basic thing. First thing is that, no matter the talent, you have to adapt and integrate because it is important to achieve a positive performance. Once you adapt, your talent will show.
How do you see the Rwandan League?
It is very good because there are very good players here. I think soon the league will be among the best in Africa as soon as more foreign players join it.
What is your target for the season?
I want to score more goals, provide more assists. I want to help my team to finish the season among the top three.
Have you played for Ghana at any age level?
No, I have not got a national team call up yet.
Did you know about Rwanda before coming here?
Yes! I knew about Rwanda when I was promoted to the Dreams FC senior team in 2017. At the time, I played one year with former Rayon Sports striker Michael Sarpong before he came here.
Because of Sarpong, we all started to know about Rwandan football.
Who do you think is best defender you have seen in the league?
I will pick my team mate Soter Kayumba, he is a fantastic defender with so much experience.
Though he is a natural central defender, he can also operate anywhere across the back four.
If you hadn't been a footballer what would you have become?
Obviously, I would have been a business man
What are your ambitions as a footballer?
It is to excel wherever I play. I believe I have what it takes to unleash my potential and reach the top level.