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Tadious Manyepo-Sports Reporter

HE might be just 12-years-old but England-based Zimbabwean starlet Jayden Magaya is sending shock waves across Europe. 

The boy, born to Zimbabwean parents who moved to the UK two decades ago, has taken junior football in England by storm after scoring 46 goals in 32 games in the 2021/2022 season. 

So good is the starlet he can play any position in the field and still bang goals.

After a commanding performance while turning out for Forza Academy where he scored 36 goals in 23 matches, one of the top junior projects in the UK, Hull City Academy, came knocking in May. 

He continued with his scoring prowess in the Dan Kelly-coached side where he scored 10 goals in nine games to finish the season as one of the outstanding performers in the junior rungs of English football. 

Magaya, whose father Tichaurawa is keen to see him represent Zimbabwe at national level, started his footballing journey at Hunslet Football Club at the age of five. 

His then coaches Liam Kelly and Lee played him in almost every position he was called for and excelled. 

He was further developed by Zimbabwean coach Phillip Zulu at his Leeds-based Super Eagles in the Futsal League.

Jayden’s father, Tichaurawa, said the boy is open to represent Zimbabwe in the future. 

“We moved to the UK in 2002 thus making Jayden qualify to represent both countries ( Zimbabwe and England). His personal attributes include being a utility player and lately we are seeing his striking instincts to the likes of (the late former CAPS United striker) Shacky Tauro and ex-Black Rhinos gangling forward Maronga Nyangela. 

“He has a physical presence in the box, holds the ball well and takes on defenders and has powerful shots from both legs,” he said. 

“It feels great to have such talent and recognition far away from home. 

“As a former player myself I just wish the best for my son.” 

Jayden’s former coach Zulu chipped in: “He is a good prospect, a cultured left-footed player who is still developing in many areas of the game. He is a hardworking young player who is versatile, can play in defence as a left wing back or midfield, and attacking wings.’’ 

Jayden continues to scale dizzy heights at Hull City where he is touted as a big player to watch out for in the not-so-distant future.