Barnsley Football Club is delighted to announce that Fabio Jalo has signed a professional contract at Oakwell.
The 16-year-old forward was named as 21/22 Academy Player of the Season after netting 27 goals in all competitions at youth level last term.
He picked up where he left off, too, scoring the winner last Tuesday evening as a Reds XI side beat Guiseley in a pre-season friendly at Nethermoor Park.
“I’m happy,” beamed Jalo. “It’s a great opportunity and I just have to enjoy it. Being named Academy Player of the Season was a big step for me, due to my work, and I just want to achieve more goals and more trophies this season.”
Academy Manager, Bobby Hassell added: “There’s obviously been a lot of interest from bigger clubs; I’ve had to do a lot of travelling to see his family in Leeds and they know that this is the right club for his pathway in terms of getting into a first team.
“It’s very hard to predict talent and where they’re going to go – I don’t want to overhype him because he’s a 16-year-old, at the end of the day. Loss of form and coming into full-time training can affect them differently, injuries etcetera can hinder development.
“He’s got the right attitude, and that’s the key. It’s not so much the talent that lets them down; it’s that ability, consistency and hunger. He’s got hunger in abundance, he’s a fighter as well and he’s got a carefree attitude.”
Jalo was amongst the substitutes on Saturday as the first team drew 0-0 with Nottingham Forest at Oakwell, having already played 45 minutes for our U18s where he claimed two assists in a 5-2 victory against Lincoln City.
Barnsley FC Chief Executive Officer, Khaled El-Ahmad spoke of his pleasure at the youngster agreeing new terms: “It’s always pleasing to see a player progress through the academy, and this is a testament to the good work the academy staff does on a daily basis. We are eager to see him continue his development here at Oakwell and are hopeful of a bright future.”
Congratulations, Fabio, from everyone at Oakwell!
