Ghanaian star Jerry Afriyie’s loan move to Spanish third-tier club CD Lugo is the right step for his development, according to his agent, Graham Heydorn.
Afriyie, 18, initially transferred to Saudi club Al-Qadsiah from Thoughts FC after making a remarkable breakthrough in Ghanaian football. He played a crucial role in the Black Satellites’ gold medal triumph at the 2023 African Games, scoring the winning goal in the final against Uganda. He later clinched the Golden Boot at the U-20 WAFU Championship, helping Ghana qualify for the U-20 AFCON.
He is expected to feature prominently for Lugo until June 2025, and his agent believes Spain is the ideal environment for his development.
“I think it is a very good decision for a young player to develop in a country that arguably has the best football development system in the world,” Heydorn told The Nerve Africa. “Young Spanish players are in the best country for development.”
Heydorn also emphasized the level of competition in Spain’s third tier, comparing Lugo to Barcelona B, Real Madrid B, and Villarreal B, clubs known for producing top talent.
“These are great clubs that are respected worldwide,” he continued. “This move allows Jerry to adapt to the language, European culture, climate, tactical systems, and technical demands of the game. It’s a fantastic step that positions him well for the next stage of his career.”
Afriyie has already made an impact at the senior level, scoring on his Black Stars debut in 2024 against Niger in the final game of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
