A 10 year old Nigerian winger, Kolawole Ilori‑Oladele, is igniting excitement in France after dazzling for Valence’s under‑11 side. Reported yesterday, the young talent has caught attention with his explosive pace, deft footwork and deadly finishing in regional tournaments.
Born in Lagos, Ilori‑Oladele relocated to France and quickly stood out in Valence’s youth academy. Coaches have praised his intelligence on the pitch, noting that "he plays with intelligence, creativity, and maturity beyond his years". Tasked often on the right wing, he regularly leaves defenders trailing before slotting clinical goals.
Scouts from several top French academies are tracking his development closely. Teammates highlight not only his talent but also his strong work ethic and upbeat attitude undeniable traits for a player already making waves in U11 football.
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Editorial
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We’re captivated by how early dedication yields bright promise. Ilori‑Oladele’s rise exemplifies the powerful blend of raw talent and early cultivation. He doesn’t just run fast he thinks fast an essential trait for tomorrow’s creative stars.
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We recognise the value of environment. Transitioning from Lagos to Valence could have been daunting. Instead, he seized the chance, blending football upbringing with new surroundings. That mental adaptability speaks volumes of his character.
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We also appreciate how the club has nurtured him. Valence’s choice to trust a U11 winger in competitive settings and then back him reveals investment in youth that goes beyond routine academies. It signals a long-term vision.
We hold firm that scouts making early moves are not just seeking ability they're seeking attitude and growth mindset. Ilori‑Oladele displays both. If his trajectory remains this sharp, he may chart a path familiar to many global talents who began in humble academies before rising to elite stages.
Did You Know?
Valence’s U11 [program](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/news/interviews/radio-presenter-apologizes-for-match-fixing-claims-on-shooting-stars/) has produced three players who've progressed to professional contracts in the past five years.
France mandates formal education alongside youth football, ensuring players like Ilori‑Oladele balance academics and sport.
The French U11 national scouting network spans over 2,000 youth matches annually to identify talents early.
Nigerian youth have featured prominently in French underage selections, with two in the U15 national training camp last year.
Early data show that players combining high maturity and technical comfort at ages 10–11 have a 45 % greater chance of pro careers by age 18.