** Jérémy Ngakia: When a neo-leopard illustrates in the heart of English football **
In the competitive world of football, atypical journeys and moments of glory often only arrive after long struggles. The case of Jérémy Ngakia, recently summoned to the Congolese national selection, is the perfect incarnation of this truth. At only 24 years old, this defender, who evolves under the colors of Watford in Championship, is now a sensation on the international scene with the leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
### late but deserved recognition
It is interesting to note that Ngakia made his professional debut with West Ham United at only 19 years old, but it was his transition to Watford who really changed the situation. By joining the club in 2020, he took advantage of an environment conducive to his development, both technically and psychologically. The recognition of his talent by Congolese selection would not only be a culmination, but also a sign of his resilience. Unlike other talents that emerge quickly and are mocked by failures or injuries, Ngakia has been able to make its way through persistence and consistency.
### A responsibility to kiss
The selection of Ngakia by coach Sébastien Desabre, following the package of Axel Tuanzebe, is not just a simple invitation; She represents a unique chance for the player to mark the history of his country. The challenges that await him are numerous, but these challenges also have the advantage of propeling him into an environment that is foreign to him, that of African football. Adaptation to a different style of play, often more physical and rapid, may not be innate for him. Nevertheless, the solidarity he feels from his teammates in Watford, as James Morris pointed out, underlines the need to build a strong collective around a young talent.
### A model for future defenders
The figures reveal a player whose potential is expanding. With an average of 2.5 successful tackles per game and a percentage of successful passes greater than 80 % in Championship, Ngakia is positioned as an important defensive asset. In comparison, defenders often renowned at his age, such as Fikayo Tomori, display similar statistics but with higher media exposure, in particular thanks to their performance in the Premier League.
This selection is also a turning point for the DRC, which sometimes struggles to attract young talents with high potential evolving abroad. Ngakia may well become a model for young African footballers, demonstrating that passion for its roots and dedication to work can lead to great opportunities, even when the path seems chaotic.
### The impact of international support
The encouragement of his coach Tom Cleverley and his teammates in Watford, both emotionally and sporting, illustrate a positive dynamic and a culture of support which can often be lacking in other clubs. This support becomes essential when you know that football players, often subject to severe criticism, may find it difficult to manage the pressure of the international scene.
Ngakia, armed with unshakable support, could well transform this opportunity into a bridge between her personal career and that of the Congolese nation. He could possibly inspire many young Congolese to follow his traces, awaiting the necessary reform in the landscape of Congolese football.
### Conclusion
Jérémy Ngakia is not only a player who wears the jersey of the national selection; It is a symbol of what determination and hard work can bring to a young talent. While the DRC sails in the tumultuous waters of international football, Ngakia’s desire to grasp this chance could well change the situation not only for him, but also for an entire country. It remains to be hoped that this experience is both rewarding and formative, allowing Ngakia to fully achieve its potential and to mark the history of Congolese selection. Ultimately, this summons is only a chapter of a story which, hopefully, will continue to build on solid and inspiring bases.