In a landmark moment for Gambian football, teenage sensations Mustapha Nyassi (17) and Sheikh Jaw (18) have officially signed five-year contracts with Danish champions FC Copenhagen, joining from Real de Banjul Football Club, the reigning champions of The Gambia. The transfers, exclusively revealed by Footy-Africa, mark one of the most significant moves in the nation’s football history.
Behind the scenes, the architect of this historic deal, Modou Beyai—the players’ agent and founder of Modoustic Sports PR Company—shared insight into the years of dedication, belief, and strategic planning that made the double signing possible.
“It takes years of consistent work, belief and the right network,” Beyai explained in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa. “My vision is to identify talent early, guide them in a structured way, and connect them with clubs that share my philosophy. It’s not just about skill; it’s about mentality, discipline, and professionalism.”
Strategic step in their careers
Both players have been on the radar of several top European clubs, with Sheikh Jaw drawing interest from the likes of AS Saint-Étienne (France), Fenerbahçe (Turkey), Club Brugge and Zulte Waregem (Belgium), Wolverhampton Wanderers and Burnley (England), as well as FC Midtjylland (Denmark).
However, it was FC Copenhagen’s vision and developmental plan that convinced the team around Jaw that Denmark’s capital was the right destination.
“Copenhagen’s willingness, project and clear developmental plan convinced us this was the right step for him,” Beyai said.
For Mustapha Nyassi, who previously spent time in Sweden with IFK Värnamo, there were also international suitors, including a firm contract proposal from DAC 1904 Dunajská Streda in Slovakia. Yet, Copenhagen’s determination to sign both players together proved decisive.
“While other clubs wanted them separately, FC Copenhagen’s approach was unique and forward-thinking,” Beyai revealed. “They understood that bringing them together would help them adapt more quickly. Competing in a club that regularly features in the UEFA Champions League makes this an ideal environment for their growth and exposure.”
Milestone for Gambian football
Beyond the professional significance, the transfers carry deep emotional meaning for the players, their families, and the broader Gambian football community.
“It’s truly life-changing,” Beyai reflected. “For many of these players, football is not just a sport—it’s a dream that can transform their families’ realities. This represents years of sacrifice, dedication, and faith. For their families, seeing their sons move from local football to one of Europe’s most respected clubs is a proud and emotional moment.”
He added that the deal underscores the progress Gambian football has made in recent years.
“This moment highlights how far Gambian football has come and where it’s heading. We are no longer outsiders—we are part of the global football ecosystem,” Beyai said. “Having our players in a club like FC Copenhagen for the first time in history shows that Gambian talent can meet the highest European standards.”
Citing examples like Yankuba Minteh, who rose from the Gambian league to success in Scandinavia before making his mark in the English Premier League, Beyai expressed optimism for the future.
“It’s proof that with proper guidance, structure and opportunity, The Gambia can continue producing players ready for the biggest stages in world football,” he concluded.
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The double signing of Nyassi and Jaw with FC Copenhagen stands as a testament to the growing recognition of Gambian talent in Europe and signals a bright new chapter for the nation’s footballing future.
