Michael Udebuluzor, a teenage football sensation, has made a significant impact on the international football scene with his outstanding performances for Hong Kong’s national team. The 19-year-old striker’s remarkable start has garnered attention from prestigious European clubs, including FC Porto and several top-tier German teams.
Udebuluzor’s journey to international recognition began with his national team debut in September, marking the end of a protracted passport saga. Since then, he has scored twice in five appearances for Hong Kong. His club performance has been equally impressive, with eight goals in 10 appearances for the second team of Ingolstadt 04, a German third-tier side. As Udebuluzor’s contract with Ingolstadt 04 nears its end, the race to sign him intensifies.
Sources close to the situation reveal that several German clubs, including Greuther Furth from the second division, are competing with FC Porto for Udebuluzor’s signature. The clubs are eager to integrate him into their under-21 squads while offering him opportunities to train with their first teams.
FC Porto’s interest in Udebuluzor is particularly noteworthy, given their prestigious history, including 30 domestic titles and two UEFA Champions League victories, the latest under renowned manager Jose Mourinho in 2004. As Porto prepares for a crucial match against Shakhtar Donetsk in this year’s Champions League, their pursuit of Udebuluzor underscores their commitment to nurturing young talent.
Born in Hong Kong in 2004 to a Nigerian father, Udebuluzor relinquished his Nigerian citizenship to play for Hong Kong. His international debut was marked by a 10-0 victory over Brunei, followed by a notable performance against Bhutan, where he scored twice, aiding Hong Kong’s qualification for the group stage of the 2026 World Cup Asian qualifiers.
Despite recent hamstring issues, Udebuluzor is expected to join head coach Jorn Andersen’s squad for the upcoming pre-Asian Cup training camp. The Hong Kong team also welcomes the addition of Kitchee forward Juninho, a Brazil-born player who recently completed his naturalization process after seven years of residency in Hong Kong. Andersen has expressed his desire to include Juninho in the Asian Cup squad, marking Hong Kong’s first participation in the tournament since 1968.
Udebuluzor’s rapid rise in international football highlights his potential and versatility as a player. His future in European football looks promising, with top clubs vying for his talent, signaling a bright career ahead in the sport.
READ MORE: