Youssoupha Sanyang is poised to make his senior international debut for Gambia, marking a major turn in the career of the 19-year-old winger who previously represented Senegal at youth level.
Born in Gambia but developed through the football system in Senegal, Sanyang has been named in new Gambia head coach Jonathan McKinstry’s 23-man squad for a pair of friendly matches in June.
The Scorpions are set to face Equatorial Guinea and Uganda in Morocco, with the squad featuring 12 first-time call-ups, including the young winger.
“I’m proud to be called up,” Sanyang said. “It’s a big opportunity to represent the country where I was born. I want to give everything for the team.”
The decision to switch national allegiances comes after Sanyang featured for Senegal’s U20 side earlier this year.
He played in the youth tournament held in Accra, Ghana, in March 2024, where his performances highlighted his growing promise on the international stage.
Sanyang began his professional journey with Teungueth FC in Senegal, where his attacking flair and versatility on the flanks caught attention beyond West Africa.
His progress earned him a move to Swedish club Östers IF in January 2025, where he has continued to impress in the Superettan.
Now, another step in his development appears imminent.
According to sources close to the player, Czech giants Slavia Prague are nearing a deal to sign him.
A medical has reportedly been scheduled, signaling that his move to one of Eastern Europe’s most prominent clubs could be finalized in the coming days.
Sanyang’s inclusion in McKinstry’s squad reflects a fresh direction for Gambia under the Northern Irish coach, who is aiming to blend youth with experience as the Scorpions prepare for upcoming international commitments.
The dual-nationality winger brings a dynamic presence to the side, with his pace, creativity, and work ethic offering a new dimension to Gambia’s attacking options.
If his club move to Prague materializes, it will further boost his development at a higher level of European competition, aligning with his ambition to make an impact not only at club level but also on the international stage with Gambia.
As he prepares for this next chapter, Sanyang stands as a symbol of the growing pool of talent emerging from West Africa and the increasingly complex paths modern footballers navigate between national teams.
