My father didn't want me to play soccer â?? Ghanaian youngster Kwaku Agyabeng opens up on journey to MLS

Ghanaian youngster Kwaku Agyabeng has revealed the family opposition he had to overcome before realising his dream of playing in Major League Soccer with Sporting Kansas City.

The 19-year-old midfielder, selected fourth overall in the 2026 MLS SuperDraft, made his professional debut just 38 minutes into the new season, entering SKC's opener against San Jose Earthquakes at PayPal Park.

"My father didn't want me to play soccer," Agyabeng shared, explaining that his dad initially pushed him toward academics and a more traditional career path. But persistence paid off—after witnessing his son's talent and unwavering determination, his father eventually became one of his biggest supporters.

Agyabeng's journey began in Kumasi before he moved to the United States, where he starred at Clemson University and earned national attention. Prior to college, he also made his mark at St. Benedict's High School and Cedar Stars Bergen, winning two national titles along the way.

Though Sporting Kansas City fell 3-0 in the match, head coach Raphael Wicky found reason for optimism in the teenager's performance, describing him as a bright prospect for the club's future.

Now finding his feet at the highest level, Agyabeng is already being mentioned as a potential contender for MLS Rookie of the Year as he embarks on his professional career.

Send your news stories to [email protected] and via WhatsApp on +233 546310076.

Read Full Story