Bayern Munich sign Nigerian starlet Daniel Francis from FC Hearts Abuja Academy

Francis joins Bayern from Abuja-based FC Hearts for an undisclosed fee after the 18-year-old took part in Bayern Munich’s ‘World Squad’ project.

The promising Nigerian midfielder will not enter the Bayern Munich setup immediately though, as he will join Austrian top-flight team Austria Klagenfurt on loan for the 2022/23 season.

Francis was part of the Nigerian U17 team that participated in the 2010 FIFA U17 World Cup in Brazil, however playing only one minute at the tournament.

According to an official statement posted on the Bayern Munich website, it was revealed Francis signed himself up for the ‘World Squad’ Project.

The statement read in part: “FC Bayern have signed 18-year-old Nigerian talent Daniel Francis. The FC Hearts Abuja midfielder has signed a contract until 2025.

“He will be loaned out to Austrian first division club Austria Klagenfurt until the end of the 2022/23 season. Francis recommended himself for a professional contract through FC Bayern ‘s ” World Squad ” project.”

The Head of the Bayern Munich Campus Jochen Sauer stated that the German giants are happy to win the race for the Nigerian starlet with other clubs reportedly interested in him after he impressed in a couple of ‘test games.’

“Daniel played to the fore during his time in the FC Bayern World Squad and acted very conspicuously in the test games. He’s attracted the interest of a number of clubs, so we’re delighted he’s signed and that he can now gain match practice at Austria Klagenfurt,” Sauer said.

Bayern Munich further hailed Francis for his leadership skills during the training camps, stating that the 18-year-old made an impression on Brazilian legend Ze Roberto and German Klaus Augenthaler during the ‘World Squad’ project.

Bayern Munich’s statement read in part: “Due to his skills as a leading player, Francis acted as captain of the selection. In training camps in Rio de Janeiro and Munich as well as friendlies under the direction of FC Bayern legends Klaus Augenthaler and Zé Roberto, he knew how to impress.”

Francis plays as a defensive midfielder and is reportedly the first Nigerian to sign for German champions Bayern Munich.