Young Stars Heading East
Exeter City Football Club is looking forward to an invigorating summer filled with pre-season friendlies as they head to Asia to face Inter Milan, K-League All Stars, and Atletico Madrid. This journey offers promising young talents the chance to demonstrate their capabilities in a senior football environment.
Key Players Set for Spotlight
Stephen Mfuni - The Rising Star
Stephen Mfuni, an 18-year-old centre-back/defender, is tipped to be a key player this summer. A natural left-footed defender, Mfuni boasts strong aerial prowess and the ability to read plays swiftly. Despite his young age, he’s not shy of carrying the ball forward and possesses an eye for penetrating passes. His previous senior experience includes making a competitive debut, earning a 10-1 FA Cup win over Exeter City at just 16 in January 2026 under Pep Guardiola.
Ryan McAidoo - Speedy Winger
Ryan McAidoo, also 18, is expected to be a speedy and efficient winger. A versatile player who can operate on either flank, McAidoo is known for his agility and clinical finishing. Last January, he made his debut in an impressive FA Cup victory over Exeter City as part of Guardiola’s final Academy appearance before his departure.
Kaden Braithwaite - The Multi-Talented Defender
Braithwaite, the same age as Mfuni, is a left-footed player with a solid and composed presence. An England youth international, he can also function in the defensive midfield role. This multi-talented player has played for City since his Under-9s days, demonstrating his versatility and ability to help regain possession quickly.
Divine Mukasa - Skilled Midfielder
Divine Mukasa, a 18-year-old midfielder, brings a mature presence to the field with both feet. Capable of dragging defenders off their line and creating scoring opportunities for teammates, Mukasa has been a key figure in his youth teams and is looking to capitalize on this opportunity.
Divin Mubama - Goal-Seeking Striker
Divin Mubama, aged 21, is a strong striker who brings relentless work ethic paired with clinical finishing abilities. Despite having several senior appearances under his belt, his move to City provided him with opportunities previously unavailable. This pre-season tour will surely be an opportunity for Mubama to showcase his talent once more.
Floyd Samba - Technical Midfielder
Floyd Samba is a young midfielder who has already gained recognition for his technical skills and smart playmaking abilities. His relentless tracking back and attacking runs make him invaluable in City’s engine room, setting the stage for his performance during pre-season.
Mamad Sangare - Versatile Forward
Mamad Sangare, as part of France's youth contingent, is a dynamic forward who can adapt to various roles upfront. With 15 goals in just 30 matches under his belt, he is primed to make an impact across the front line during this tour.
Jaden Heskey - Workmanlike Midfielder
Jaden Heskey shows strong leadership and work ethic as a midfielder. His ability to read the game and switch play effectively positions him well for success on the tour where his natural reading of the pitch will assist in disrupting opponent attacks.
All these young talents are eager to impress during Exeter City’s upcoming tours, showcasing their readiness to step into senior football. The club is confident that this pre-season trip will be instrumental in their development as they look towards a promising future.
