Jonathan Lukangi
Sep 29, 2023
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Divine Mukasa Signs for Manchester City, Eligible to Play for Uganda

Divine Mukasa a British-Ugandan born football star signed to Manchester City football club.
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Kenya had Victor Wanyama, who played for Tottenham Hot Spurs. Then Tanzania’s Mbwana Samatta signed for Aston Villa. Uganda might finally get a Ugandan player in the English Premier league, even if right now he’s still British.

Last week Divine Mukasa, 16, signed for Premier League champions Manchester City on a long-term contract. He came from West Ham, where he spent ten years in the team’s academy. He made 10 appearances for the club’s U-18 team, scoring once with an assist.

Mukasa took to Instagram to confirm the move, posting a photo with the caption: ‘Go time!’ followed by a signing emoji.



But what is exciting Ugandans is that the teenager is eligible to play for Uganda, among three countries he can choose from. Although born in Britain his father, Sam Mukasa, is from Uganda; while his mother, Liam, is from Lithuania. So he can play for any the three countries: Britain, Uganda or Lithuania.

But the news brought mixed reactions from Ugandans, some of whom felt he would be wasting his time to play for Uganda in the hundreds of social media posts after the news broke.

“Uganda isn't the best place for him to exploit his talent, there are so many talents from Uganda but before we change our structure they will never benefit the country” - Rashid  Muyanja

“He can't play for confused Uganda Cranes” - Kelon Dario Decircuit

“The boy is English not a Ugandan, like Bukayo Saka. How can such a talent come to Uganda where the football Association is poor and corrupt?” - Sendegeya Ronald

“Leave the boy alone. He's English born and raised in England. Better develop your facilities so as to groom your players rather than admiring those groomed by other countries with high quality facilities.” - James Baker

“I pray he doesn't join Uganda Cranes.... they play village football” - Bazira Brian Rivers

“Divine is talented but sloppy, he can't match our football. Besides, we have more boys that need this opportunity. He is already earning let him remain in England.” - Okolong Emmanuel.

But some were happy for him:

“That's great news, it's not about playing for Uganda but where he is  going now”. - Mugula Patrick

Mukasa is an attacking midfielder who rose quickly through the ranks of West Ham’s youth academy, and made his U-18 debut when just 15 years of age. That team went on to win the 2022-23 Premier League South Championship. He has been called up for the England U-16 team.

He has been described as a talented midfielder that can also play several positions, including the no 10 position. A skilled, speedy player with an eye for goal, he is regarded as one of the most promising young players in English football.

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