On Monday, top talent Abubakarr Kargbo, age 15, signed his first professional contract with NEC Nijmegen, which will run until the summer of 2028.

Three other talented players from the DFDS – NEC Football Academy also signed their first professional contracts.

Abubakarr Kargbo, Mees Rensen, Mandela Bongne, and Jeremy van Haalen, who all play in the Under 17 team, are now signed until the summer of 2028.

Technical director Carlos Aalbers is proud that these players have been connected to NEC for a longer time.

“This is part of our new vision. We want to keep great talents with us and not lose them to bigger clubs. This way, we reward them for their hard work and can continue to develop together,” he said.

Colin Williamson, Head of Youth Development, added: “It is uncommon for players to sign their first contract with NEC at just fifteen years old. We are happy to have these boys as a strong foundation as we aim to help them move up to the first team. This is something the DFDS – NEC Football Academy can build on.”