Yankuba Minteh: Profile, playing style, scouting report

Minteh recently scored in 2-2 draw against Congo

Yankuba Minteh, a player on loan from Newcastle United who is currently playing for Feyenoord, had his fourth game in Dutch football last weekend. The young speedster was reportedly acquired by United for an estimated £8 million (with possible future add-ons, sale options, etc.) from Danish side Odense.

The 19-year-old player made his Utrecht debut after 55 minutes, with Feyenoord leading 2-1. Yankuba Minteh continued to excel, contributing to the Dutch champs' 4-1 lead before the crucial moment occurred in extra time.

The stakes for Sunday's game between Gambia and Congo couldn't have been higher because it would determine whether the nation would advance to the AFCON (African Cup of Nations) finals in early 2024. Gambia would not advance to the championship game if Congo won.

The match will be staged in Marrakech, Morocco, which will add to the challenges because Gambia lacks a venue appropriate for holding international games.

Added in the second half, Newcastle United forward enabled Gambia to take control of the game but did not manage to find a solution for them to get back into it as time ran out.

After 79 minutes, Yankua Minteh gambled on a headed flick and it paid off. The 19-year-old scored at the back corner on his debut for Gambia and gave the nation some encouragement.

Yankuba Minteh's quick ascent at a young age

Minteh was discovered by a European talent organisation after making an impression in the Gambian Premier Division. This agency assisted him in getting trials with numerous clubs in Europe. After receiving an offer from a Championship club in England, he ultimately made the brave decision to chase his aspirations in a foreign nation. His career was ultimately changed by this action.

Yankuba Minteh began his professional career in The Gambia at Steve Biko FC. He transferred to Danish club OB during the summer of 2022. On September 10, 2022, in a 2-1 victory over Copenhagen, he appeared in his Danish Superliga bow. Three minutes after replacing Franco Tongya, he tallied the game-winning goal.

Newcastle United, a Premier League team, revealed on June 12, 2023, that Yankuba Minteh would begin working for them on July 1, 2023.

According to media sources, Newcastle are going to pay OB somewhere around €7 million. Newcastle concurrently revealed that Minteh would be given a season-long loan to Eredivisie giants Feyenoord following his arrival.

On August 4th, 2023, Minteh earned his team's breakthrough in the Johan Cruyff Shield. On September 3, he recorded his maiden goal for the team, tallying the fifth in a 5-1 victory over FC Utrecht on the road.

Yankuba Minteh's playing style

First of all, he is an invaluable member of any squad due to his innate talent and skill set. He stands out from many other players thanks to his technical skills, which include his accurate passing, quick movement, and ability to read the game.

The physical qualities of Minteh further increase his potential for success in the Premier League. He is a strong force in midfield clashes at 6 feet 2 inches tall, with outstanding strength and aerial prowess. His speed and agility also enable him to dodge threats and make piercing dashes into the box.

Yankuba Minteh's attitude towards the sport is also admirable. He is renowned for his commitment, control, and work ethic. He exhibits maturity above his years despite his youth, both on and off the pitch. He is a perfect contender for the Premier League due to his dedication to lifelong learning and openness to receiving coaching and guidance from more seasoned teammates.

However, Newcastle's decision to send him on loan makes more sense because he is still a young player and will need additional time to gain European experience. He will have developed into a top player by that point and be prepared to compete at a Premier League level.