In a promising move for Gambian football, 15-year-old sensation Muhammed Daba Jawo has completed a switch to Torino Football Club, joining the Italian side’s prestigious academy after an impressive spell at Girona FC in Spain.
The young midfielder, who has been widely regarded as one of the brightest Gambian prospects in European youth football, was on the radar of several top clubs across the continent, including Ajax, Juventus, Como 1907, and Real Betis.
However, it was Torino’s long-term vision and player development project that convinced Muhammed and his family to choose the Turin-based club.
From Basse to Barcelona
Born in Basse Mansajang Kunda, in The Gambia’s Upper River Region, Muhammed’s football journey began after he moved to Spain in 2015 to join his family. Recognising his natural talent and passion for the game, his father enrolled him in a local academy — a decision that set him on the path to Girona FC’s youth setup.
At Girona, Muhammed flourished. Over four seasons, he rose through the ranks, impressing coaches and scouts alike with his composure, vision, and technical ability. His performances also earned him a place in the Catalonia regional youth team, where he shared the pitch with now–FC Barcelona superstar Lamine Yamal. Together, they lifted the Spanish Inter-Regional Championship titles in 2022 and 2023, a testament to his growing reputation within Spanish youth football.
Muhammed’s development saw him promoted from the Cadet level to Juvenile A, Girona’s top youth category — a clear sign of his maturity and progress on the pitch.
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Proud moment for The Gambia
Reacting to his son’s latest milestone, Muhammed’s father, Omar TC Jawo in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa expressed immense pride and optimism for the future:
“I’m so very happy and proud to see him reach this level,” he said. “My wish is to see him represent The Gambia in the future, but that would depend surely on his choice. I would surely want him to take my footsteps in representing and developing football in The Gambia, most especially in our region of Basse and URR.”
His words echo the sentiments of many Gambian football fans, who see Muhammed’s rise as a beacon of hope for the next generation of players emerging from the country’s diaspora.
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Eyes on the future
Muhammed’s transfer to Torino marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his young career. Known for nurturing top talents through their academy, the Italian club is expected to provide him with the right environment to refine his skills and adapt to the tactical demands of Italian football.
The 15-year-old is set to sign his first professional contract in January 2026, once he turns 16 — a moment that could mark the official start of a promising professional journey.
