Seventeen-year-old Jeff Ekhator, a forward with Nigerian roots, is now in a competitive race with Mario Balotelli for a starting role in Genoa’s lineup after the veteran striker joined the team.
Ekhator has made a strong impression this season with nine appearances and one goal, making him one of the youngest players to score in Europe’s major leagues second only to Yamine Lamal.
The addition of Balotelli raises the stake for Ekhator, who was recently subbed off for the former Manchester City player in a Serie A match against Parma. A product of Genoa’s youth academy, Ekhator has been with the club since age eight, advancing through their under-18 and under-19 teams and helping secure a national title with the under-18 squad last season.
Since making his professional debut in Genoa’s Coppa Italia match against Reggiana in August, Ekhator also debuted in Serie A against Inter Milan, quickly establishing himself as a promising young talent. Born to Nigerian parents in Italy, he remains eligible to play internationally for either Nigeria or Italy, as he has yet to represent either nation.
With Balotelli’s arrival, Ekhator faces a new level of competition, challenging him to enhance his performance to keep his place in the team.
