The Phobians last month announced the signing of talented Martin Karikari on a five-year-deal from Division One side Asekem FC.
Here's a look at everything fans need to know about the 19-year-old sensation.
He's Got Some Surprising Attributes
Karikari was Asekem’s leading scorer and the team’s most prolific passer. In the 2020/21 season, he scored 5 goals and registered 10 assists in 18 appearances. In the 2021/22 season, he netted 7 times and recorded 12 assists in 19 appearances.
In the Division league last term, he scored 12 goals with 8 assists. But for a player noted for being technically gifted, he also has a set of surprising additional attributes that promise to stand him in good stead for the physicality of Ghana’s elite division.
Despite his naturally attacking position, Karikari is additionally a strong tackler, suggesting that he is more than happy to press from the front and harry opponents in midfield.
He's Been Likened to Messi
As far as a more direct style comparison to a current player goes, there are certainly similarities to be drawn with Inter Miami and Argentina star Lionel Messi.
Rather like Messi, Karikari is also left-footed, while they both usually primarily prefer to occupy a central attacking midfield position as well.
Karikari is a huge fan of the look one way, pass another passes and regularly goes to that play when under pressure.
He's Versatile
Karikari primarily plays as an attacking midfielder and occasionally deployed in central midfield. He can also play on either flank. He works tirelessly for the team and has been bright in whatever position he has played.
The talented Karikari plays with a tremendous amount of maturity, constantly looking to harry and press his opponents when out of possession, while he will look to make penetrating runs forward or bring his teammates into the game when on the ball.
He has astonishing technical ability and can easily get past his man with a clever piece of skill, but he has the awareness to know when it is most appropriate.
Earned a national U-20 Call-up
The new Hearts man was once invited by Yaw Preko, the then manager of Ghana’s national U-20 team, the Black Satellites. He was in camp as the Black Satellites prepared for the African games in Morocco.
Sadly, he missed the final list that represented Ghana in Morocco
Interest from Ghana's top clubs
While inquiring for the youngster's services, the Phobians had to contend with several Ghanaian topflight clubs, but the Mampong-Beposo born and raised Karikari decided to join the Continental Club Masters.
A source told kickgh.com that Kotoko were leading the race for his signature, but there was also string interest from Legon Cities and Karela United FC.
