Highly rated Danish-born Ghanaian teenager Malik Pimpong has described the possibility of making his first-team debut for FC Midtjylland in the UEFA Europa League as a dream come true.

The 18-year-old forward, who has been in scintillating form for Midtjylland’s U19 side, has been named in the club’s 22-man squad for Thursday night’s Europa League clash away to Norwegian outfit SK Brann at the Brann Stadion.

Speaking ahead of the encounter, Pimpong expressed gratitude for the opportunity to step up from youth football and experience life at senior level.

“It has been something completely different from playing U19 football,” he told the club’s official media. “I’m really grateful that the coaches have given me the opportunity to come along. It means a lot.”

He highlighted the sharp contrast between youth and senior football, adding: “You really have to get used to the pace when you’re a senior, and the physical side is completely different from the U19s. That’s something I’ve already taken with me.”

Despite uncertainty over minutes, the teenage attacker remains hopeful. “It would be a dream for me if I come in and make my debut,” he said. “You never know, but I hope. At least I’m ready on the bench to come in and give everything I have.”

Reflecting on his journey through the club’s academy, Pimpong described the moment as special. “It’s been a tough but incredibly good journey. FC Midtjylland has been my favourite club since I was little, so joining as a U13 player made me really happy. Now I’m facing a potential Europa League debut — it’s hard to put into words.”

Pimpong’s rise has been backed by eye-catching numbers, having scored 16 goals in 16 appearances for FC Midtjylland’s U19 team across all competitions this season.

Born in Denmark to former Ghana international Razak Pimpong, Malik remains eligible to represent Ghana at senior level, despite featuring for Denmark’s U17 and U18 national teams.