Highly-rated academy prospect signs first Charlton Athletic professional deal

Highly-rated academy prospect Emmanuel Sol-Loza has signed his first professional contract with Charlton Athletic.

The 17-year-old forward, who joined the Addicks’ academy at U12 level, is currently in his first season as a full-time scholar with the U18s and has also featured for Chris Lock’s U21s this term.

Sol-Loza hit an incredible hat-trick at The Valley back in May as Charlton’s U16s were crowned Premier League Professional Development League Cup champions.

“There’s been a lot of highs and lows in terms of my journey here, so I’m very delighted to have signed my first professional contract,” he said. “To have found out the day after my birthday as well was great!

“I’m so thankful to everyone – all of the coaches that have helped me in my development, and my family and those who have supported me throughout my journey.”

Academy manager Tom Pell added: “It’s fantastic news for Emmanuel, his family and for us as a football club. We want to ensure we reward the players that we feel deserve it, not only for really good performances and showing high potential but for those that have the right attitude and work ethic, which Emmanuel does.

“Emmanuel’s an exciting player that likes to run in behind as a number nine. He has good pace and power, and a really good mentality as well. He thoroughly deserves this professional contract and we’re all looking forward to watching him continue his development with us.”

Technical director Andy Scott commented: “We’re really pleased Emmanuel has signed a professional contract with the club. He’s a very exciting young player and an impressive young man who we believe can develop into a player that can make an impact on the men’s first-team squad over the next few seasons.

“He becomes the latest academy player to commit his future to Charlton, as we look to build a core group of players that can grow, develop and progress as the club does.”