Musa Barrow on Why Gambia Is Now Producing top Quality Stars Like Brighton's Yankuba Minteh ahead of Harambee Stars Clash

Gambian forward Musa Barrow has credited hunger, determination, and a growing culture of professionalism for his country’s rising success in producing footballers capable of excelling in Europe’s top leagues.

Barrow, now playing for Saudi Pro League side Al Taawoun after spells in Italy with Atalanta and Bologna, has been a central figure in The Gambia’s rise on the continental stage, including their memorable run to the quarter-finals of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Speaking ahead of Friday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Kenya at Kasarani Stadium, Barrow highlighted how his journey abroad has served as inspiration for the new wave of Gambian stars.

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“As a young player coming from Gambia to Italy, I went there with hunger and determination to make it in football.

“ It wasn’t an easy road, but with determination and the willingness to learn, I managed to grow into a professional player, and I’m really happy about that.

“From those experiences, I try to help my teammates. I don’t focus on what they can do for me—I want to help them become better, because if they improve, I improve too. 

“With the young players we have, who are very talented, everyone is motivated to represent the country with pride.”

Barrow is far from the only Gambian making headlines abroad. Yankuba Minteh, one of Africa’s most exciting young wingers, secured a high-profile move from Newcastle United to Brighton after a stellar loan spell at Feyenoord, where he registered double digits in goals and assists.

Defender Abdoulie Ceesay also made history in 2025, moving directly from Estonia’s Paide Linnameeskond to Bundesliga side St. Pauli—an unprecedented leap that underscored his growing reputation.

Meanwhile, Ebrima Colley, now at Swiss giants Young Boys, became the first Gambian ever to score in the UEFA Champions League during a group-stage match against RB Leipzig. 

In England, Alassana Jatta has been a revelation for Notts County, scoring 17 goals to fuel their promotion push and attract Championship interest.

Together, these players symbolize The Gambia’s rapid rise in footballing stature, fueled by a growing network of scouts and a determination among young talents to follow in the footsteps of pioneers like Barrow.

Looking ahead to the crucial qualifier, Barrow acknowledged the challenge posed by Kenya, especially with the backing of their home crowd.

“I think tomorrow’s game is going to be very interesting because Kenya showed us they can compete—they are a good team. We want to learn from our mistakes from the last game and, inshallah, deliver tomorrow.

“Of course, Kenya will have the advantage of playing at home with their fans behind them. But that’s the beauty of football—you can play anywhere, whether the stadium is against you or in your favor. Inshallah, tomorrow we are ready to face Kenya and go for the win.”

With pride and motivation driving both teams, the clash at Kasarani promises to be more than just a qualifier—it is another step in The Gambia’s growing football story.