The case of Joseph Marie Minala has indeed caused a stir in the football world, particularly in Italy, where his age has come into question. Minala, who plays for the Lazio reserve team, was called up for the Roman derby between Lazio and AS Roma, sparking a wave of attention on social media.
According to reports, Minala’s listed age of 17 is disputed in Italy, with some questioning whether he is actually older. Despite this controversy, Minala has shown promise on the field, boasting 5 goals in 8 games this season for Lazio’s reserve team.
However, his career has not been without challenges, as he has reportedly faced false promises from agents in the past. Nevertheless, Minala has found stability with Lazio’s Primavera team, where he continues to develop as a young footballer.
The debate surrounding Minala’s age underscores the scrutiny and pressure faced by young athletes in the competitive world of professional football.