Joy-Lance Mickels set to make history as first Rwandan in Champions League proper

Rwanda international Joy-Lance Mickels is set to become the first footballer from the East African nation to play in the Champions League proper when Sabah face Manchester United at Old Trafford on Thursday.

The 32-year-old forward, who was born and raised in Germany, spent the early part of his career in the German lower leagues before spells in the Netherlands and Saudi Arabia.

Mickels first joined Azerbaijani club Sabah in 2021 and spent two seasons with the club before returning to the Bank Respublika Arena in 2024.

“My career has not always followed a straight or easy path,” he told the BBC.

“I have played at different levels and in several countries. But every experience has helped me grow both as a footballer and as a person.”

Mickels qualifies to represent Rwanda through his parents and made his international debut for the Wasps in March.

His appearance against Manchester United will mark another significant milestone in a career that has taken him from the lower leagues in Germany to Europe’s biggest club competition.

“I’m very proud of my Rwandan roots,” he said.

“Representing Rwanda whilst playing in the Champions League is very, very special.

“I hope my journey can help inspire young Rwandan players and show them that with belief, hard work and patience, it is possible to reach the pinnacle of football.”

Sabah’s Champions League campaign begins with one of the biggest tests possible as they travel to Old Trafford to face six-time European champions Manchester United.

Their league-phase schedule also includes home matches against former European champions Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona.

Sabah’s home ground does not meet Uefa regulations for Champions League matches, meaning the club are expected to host those high-profile fixtures at the Olympic Stadium in Baku.

They will also return to England for their final league-phase fixture against reigning Premier League champions Arsenal.

For Mickels, however, the focus is on embracing every challenge rather than simply the biggest names.

“Every match in the Champions League is special because you are competing against some of the best teams and players in Europe,” he said.

“Of course, Manchester United and Barcelona immediately stood out because of their history and global reputation.

“Playing at Old Trafford and welcoming Barcelona to Baku are the kinds of occasions every footballer dreams about.

“But we should respect every opponent and each match will be an opportunity for us to test ourselves at the highest level.”