As clubs and fans prepare for the take-off of the new Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, Sunshine Stars Football Club of Akure have added 21 new players to their squad. This move signifies their ambition to compete for the top spot and secure a place in CAF organized competition.
Among the new entrants are Seth Mayi, goalkeeper Emmanuel Ofori, Achi Nnaemeka who reunited with the team after spending two seasons with Remo Stars, Lucky Vandy (Gombe United), goalkeeper Obiosor David (Bendel Insurance), Seidu Salisu (Plateau United) and Stephen Chukwude who also returned from Heartland FC. Others are Peace Dewan (Gombe United), Yusuf Olowoshile (Bendel Insurance), Adamu Umar (Doma United) Dozie Nnwana(Gombe United)), Arunta Elmer (Enugu Rangers), Benjamin Iluyomade (Abia Comet), Segun Owoade (Inter Lagos) and Ismail Ayodele (Osun United).
The rest are Olaoluwa Okiki(Soccer talent Academy), Adeolu Gabriel (Solution FC), Manuwa Kayode and (Agbo Boys Academy).
The club also promoted four players from the youth team to the senior squad, Shettima Mongulo, Oluwole Kehinde, Ismail Amid and Precious Olowojesiku. This is a testament to the club’s commitment to developing young talent.
Unveiling New Players
The club unveiled the new players in a ceremony attended by Sunshine Stars President, Bamidele Ologunloluwa and Chairman of Sunshine Stars and Sunshine Queens supporters club, Tunde Adeboboye. Ologunloluwa expressed his appreciation to the players for choosing Sunshine Stars as their first choice for the 2024/25 NPFL season, reassuring them of a better welfare package and urging them to give their best.
Ambitious Goals
The club’s ambition for the new season is clear. Ologunloluwa stated: “Our target as far as the 2024/25 NPFL programme is concerned is to compete for the top spot and play in CAF organized competition.” The club is clearly aiming high and is prepared to make a strong push for a championship title.
Expectations From Fans and Players
Adeboboye encouraged the players to show commitment and play with their hearts, reminding them that Sunshine Stars is a big team in the NPFL. Captain David Ariyo expressed gratitude to the team management for their support and assured fans that the team is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
He acknowledged the expectations of the fans and pledged to give their best for the team: “Our fans are expecting much from us and we promised them that we will do our best for the team.”
Season Opener
Sunshine Stars will kick off the 2024/25 NPFL season with a crucial match against Bayelsa United in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. The game will be played at the club’s temporary home ground, Otunba Dipo Dina Stadium.
The first game is always important as it sets the tone for the rest of the season. With a new squad and high expectations, Sunshine Stars will be looking to start the season on a strong note. The team will be aiming for a win in their opening fixture and will be hoping to carry that momentum throughout the season.
A New Chapter
Sunshine Stars are entering a new chapter with the arrival of 21 new players and the promotion of four youth team players. This is a sign of the club’s ambition and their desire to succeed in the NPFL. The club has a rich history, and they will be looking to build on that legacy with the new squad. Fans will be looking forward to an exciting season and hoping for a successful campaign for Sunshine Stars.
