Halid Djankpata might not mean a lot to your every day Everton supporter, but he is a player who has been at their academy since he was 14 years of age and he has climbed up through the ranks over the years.
The 17-year-old is currently representing both the Toffees’ U18 and U21 side this season.
Djankpata was already given an opportunity to train with Everton’s first team when Frank Lampard was in charge at the club but is yet to make his debut with them.
Gazzetta dello Sport interviewed the Togo-born midfielder and he revealed the Premier League side have promised to offer him first professional contract later this year.
“I feel ready for adult [first team] football. Everton told me that at the end of the season I should sign my first professional contract with them,” he said.
Djankpata initially started in Italy as a striker and moved to England. During his time in the UK, his position was changed from an attacker to the middle of the pitch.
“At the age of eight, I played with those of 12. I even had tryouts with Brescia and Atalanta, but in the end, we gave up due to the distance,” Djankpata explained.
“At the beginning I was bad because I felt great in Italy. I didn’t want to leave school and friends. And then there is no comparison when it comes to food and climate: I miss lasagna and pizza a lot”.
“It was hard because I didn’t know many words in English at first. I found physical and hard football. In Italy I was a giant, in England one of many. As a striker I was set back as a central midfielder.”
“The scouts from Manchester City, Liverpool and Everton came to see me. And in 2018, after a series of tryouts, I signed with Everton.”
“The environment and facilities are super. This club breathes history. I also met Kean, at Everton at the time: it was nice because we talked about our very similar stories. I live in Manchester and commute daily on the club shuttle. Twice a week my mates and I go to Everton college for some lessons.”
The starlet is an admirer of Juventus’ current midfielder, Paul Pogba, and their former star, Andrea Pirlo.
Although his immediate goal is to sign a contract at Everton, his long-term dream is to succeed in Serie A.
“For some, I have the characteristics of Musiala. My role models are Pogba and Pirlo. One day I would like to establish myself in Serie A. Dreams in the drawer? Playing the Champions League with Juventus, my favorite team, and the World Cup with Italy,” he added.
