In a historic moment for African football, 19-year-old Ghanaian midfielder Manu Duah has been selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft, joining the league’s newest team, San Diego FC.

Duah, a towering presence at 6-foot-4, becomes only the second Ghanaian to achieve this prestigious milestone, following in the footsteps of Abu Danladi, who was the top pick in 2017 for Minnesota United after excelling at UCLA. This time, however, the spotlight shines on the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), as Duah becomes the first-ever student-athlete from the school to be chosen first overall in any professional sports league draft.

The SuperDraft, a key mechanism for helping struggling teams or new franchises like San Diego FC, offers them a chance to secure top talent. For Duah, it represents the beginning of a highly anticipated career. His selection underscores his exceptional skill set and potential to make an immediate impact.

San Diego FC will officially unveil their young star on 23 February 2025, in what promises to be a blockbuster season opener against the reigning MLS Cup champions, L.A. Galaxy.

Why Manu Duah’s No. 1 Pick is Significant

1. Top Talent: Being the first pick cements his status as the most promising player in the draft.

2. High Expectations: As the face of San Diego FC’s new era, Duah will carry the hopes of the franchise and its fans.

3. Career Impact: Historically, No. 1 picks have set the stage for remarkable professional careers.

4. Recognition: This milestone affirms Duah’s place among the best young talents in football.

Duah’s achievement not only elevates his career but also inspires the next generation of African footballers chasing their dreams on the global stage.