Following his promotion to the New York Red Bulls FC senior team in Major League Soccer (MLS), Ghanaian forward Mohammed Sofo is eager to seize the opportunity and establish himself as a key player for the club.
In an exclusive interview with The Nerve Africa, the 19-year-old, who has been playing for the reserve team (New York Red Bulls II) in MLS Next Pro, discussed his ambitions and the responsibilities that come with representing a club as prestigious as New York Red Bulls.
“It’s a huge honour to have my name considered by the coaches for the senior team. I’ve looked forward to this moment since joining this organisation, so I’m excited and ready to go,” Sofo told The Nerve Africa.
“But this is just the beginning of what lies ahead, as I live this dream. The hard work starts now, and I’m committed to doing everything to help this team achieve big things. Most importantly, I want to become a regular starter, but that requires a lot of hard work and sacrifice.”
“This is a massive club with exceptional facilities,” Sofo reiterated, adding, “it has a rich history and legendary players who have come through, like Thierry Henry and Tim Howard. It’s a huge honour to try and follow in their footsteps.”
Since last season, Sofo has played 33 games in MLS Next Pro with the reserves, scoring 10 goals and providing seven assists. This season, he has made 20 appearances, netting eight goals and recording seven assists.
“I’ve been performing well with the lads in the reserves, and I couldn’t have done it without them and the amazing coaching staff. They’ve truly brought out the best in me, and I want to make them proud and set an example.”
“Whenever I’m called upon, I’ll give my absolute best to help the team meet its seasonal targets. This is who I am, and it’s what I’m made to do: help New York Red Bulls at all levels and at all times,” Sofo added.
Sofo has yet to make an appearance for the Ghanaian national senior team, the Black Stars, but he remains hopeful of earning a call-up. “It takes hard work and consistency. I’m not discouraged; I keep working hard, and maybe one day I’ll represent my country.”
