Bunmi Haruna, the respected two-time assistant coach of Nigeria’s U17 national team, has confirmed ongoing discussions with Cameroonian club Young Sports Academy (YOSA FC) over a potential head coaching role.

 

The talks come in the wake of YOSA FC’s relegation to the second division and the departure of former Indomitable Lions manager Alexandre Belinga. The club’s Portuguese-based owner, Emma Mimba, is reportedly eager to rebuild with a tactically astute coach at the helm — and sees Haruna as a fitting candidate for the task.

 

Mimba’s interest in Haruna was piqued during the EIBER Cup in Portugal, where Haruna’s side, Blue Ocean FC, reached the semifinals of the U19 tournament. Known for his attention to modern football tactics, Mimba was impressed by the structured style and discipline of Haruna’s team.

 

Speaking about the speculation, Haruna confirmed initial talks but clarified that no formal agreement has been reached.

 

“Yes, I spoke with the club’s president [Mimba], but we are yet to agree on anything,” Haruna told reporters. “I must thank Mimba for this gesture because it shows the efforts I have put into developing myself have not gone unnoticed.”

 

Haruna also shed light on the substance of their football discussions, noting Mimba’s keen interest in tactical philosophy.

 

“We met in Portugal and basically discussed football in general, but I noticed he was big on the tactical aspect of the game and was always wanting to know why we played the way we played.”

 

While open to the idea of coaching abroad, Haruna was cautious about rushing into a decision.

 

“It is my dream to coach abroad, to take my philosophy and passion to a different culture, but the conditions have to be right.”

 

Haruna’s growing profile was recently enhanced by his appointment as a CAF Instructor, joining a wave of Nigerian coaches gaining international recognition. Others, including Salisu Yusuf and Oladuni Oyekale, are already making their mark in the Benin Republic.

 

Should the deal with YOSA FC go through, Haruna would be tasked with leading the club back to Cameroon’s top flight — a significant challenge, but one that aligns with his ambitions of leaving a broader imprint on African football.