Fortune Football Club have marked a major milestone after defender Saihou Sonko signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with Slovakian side FC ViOn Zlaté Moravce-Vráble, while forwards Ali Ousaye and Dawda Darboe joined the club on one-year loan deals with options to buy.
The three Gambian youngsters earned their first professional contracts after spending more than two months on trial with the Slovakian outfit, impressing the technical staff with their discipline, talent and professionalism.
Speaking exclusively to Footy-Africa, Fortune FC Secretary-General Muhammed Lamin Drammeh described the transfers as a proud moment for the club, highlighting them as the product of long-term planning and a shared vision.
“This is a huge achievement for Fortune Football Club. Moving three players to Europe at the same time didn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of teamwork, structure and belief,” Drammeh exclusively told Footy-Africa.
He praised Sporting Director Momodou “Zico” Ceesay for his instrumental role in facilitating the move, alongside club president Assan Ndure, whose vision and commitment continue to shape the club’s player development pathway.
The process began after an agent visited The Gambia, observed Fortune FC’s training sessions and league matches, and was impressed by the club’s organisation and football philosophy. That visit led to the trials in Slovakia, where the trio proved their quality.
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Saihou Sonko’s permanent deal has already been finalised, while the club remains optimistic that Ali Ousaye and Dawda Darboe will secure permanent moves following their loan spells.
Drammeh noted that the transfers validate Fortune FC’s commitment to nurturing local talent and creating international opportunities, strengthening the club’s reputation as a talent development hub.
“What sets these players apart is their mindset,” he added. “Saihou brings leadership and composure, while Ali and Dawda offer flair, energy and confidence in attack. They embody the values we stand for.”
Fortune FC say the journey continues, with two more players currently on trial in Turkey and others preparing to follow similar pathways, as the club looks to consistently project Gambian talent onto the global stage.
