Inspired by Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea, Emmanuel Manase has taken up goalkeeping career to ensure he succeeds in future.
The class seven pupil has vowed to lead his team to reclaim the Kenya Primary Schools Sports Association (KPSSA) title set to be held in Meru next month.
Coming from Chavakali Primary school, Manase will be crafting his career to suit his mentor De Gea.
“I have to work hard and be recruited into the best football clubs in Kenya and possibly play at the European clubs as a l I look forward to be the best keeper like De Gea,” said Manase.
The shots stopper was named the best goalkeeper in the concluded Western region primary games as looks forward to help his team win the overall title after finishing third last year.
The boy who started his goalkeeping career in 2016 at Vigogo Junior football club in Chavakali was discovered by Augustine Kuta and mentored him to be the best.
“The coach saw me in the sticks and decided to recruit me in the squad and through him, am making a great progress in my young career. I want to be the best at the nationals,” said Manase.
He said that he started with paper made ball to before his goalkeeping skills improved and through hard work and persistence, he promised to grow and become one of the best in the country.
“Through the guidance of the best coaches I have, both at school and at the club, I will grow to be the best,” he added.
Western Region Primary schools Sports Association Secretary Sarah Muhanji said the boy has been performing well in the posts hence he was chosen as the best.
“He did a good job and we want to nurture his talent to the better. With a total of 104 players heading to the nationals, he stands out as the best,” said Muhonja.
Last year, Western region finished third behind winners Rift Valley and Nyanza but they are working hard to ensure they claim the title.
“This year, we have the best team to represent the region. With such team, we have the potential of reclaiming our title,” she said.