Richard Faakye | Every young footballer dreams of a pro contract

Richard Faakye is ready to make his mark for Swansea City Under-21s this season, after fulfilling his dream of becoming a professional footballer.

The defender has signed his first professional contract with the Swans, agreeing terms through to the summer of 2024.

The 18-year-old joined Swansea City in the summer of 2021, and was a pivotal figure at the back for the under-18s last season, skippering the young side on a number of occasions. 

“I’m very excited. I know this sounds a bit cliché but every young person who plays football dreams of signing a professional contract," said Faakye. 

“I’m so proud that I've got to where I am, and it’s only just the start. 

“Last season, my confidence grew a lot, I really enjoyed my football and this season I’m looking forward to playing at a different level. 

“I’m going into my third year in Swansea now, and I really love it here. It’s very different to London, my home."

Hailing from south-west London, Faakye was previously on the books at Crystal Palace for six years.

“I think I played in almost every position at Palace. I did enjoy my time there, and my experience at the club has definitely shaped who I am today," he added.

“I learnt a lot of things and was taught by some very good people. It was only a 35-minute drive from where I lived. 

“The transition wasn’t a difficult one when moving here, I knew some of the boys before coming so that was always a huge positive."

Faakye made his under-21s' debut against Exeter City in the Premier League Cup in September 2021 at the age of 16, and has gone on to make several further appearances at the upper-age level.

And the youngster is ready to make the full-time step with pre-season training having gotten under way. 

“There’s a bit more expectation and responsibility now, the demands and intensity levels are a lot higher," he said. 

“I’m just ready to try and prove what I can do, hopefully I already showed that last season as a scholar. 

“We’ve only been back in training for a few days, the standards are high and I’m looking forward to getting stuck in for pre-season. 

“Pre-season will be about getting myself up to full fitness and getting those minutes under my belt."