Phoenix Youth Players

http://oceaniafootballcenter.home.blog/2019/11/17/...

Raphael Lea'i, Solomon Islands wonderkid, just scored for his new side in S-League in Solomon Islands. He was linked to Phoenix and in scholarship with Scots College. Did he leave the deal?

Maybe he has headed home from school early and just playing for them over the summer holidays?

Due to FIFA regulations he wasn't allowed to sign until he turned 18 I thought? So maybe he's sort of out on loan to get more experience before he returns to us.

Hope he does come back - he already has a huge reputation.

Both Raphael and Leon were apparently in New Zealand on 'academic scholarships' with Scots's College.

Fifa rules prohibit foreign players under 18 from signing for clubs except under some rather strict criteria which these players did not meet. 

Phoenix were prepared to allow them to train with the academy.

School may have had a different view regarding their commitments.

Both have reportedly returned to Solomon Islands following their U17 World Cup exit to play for SI senior clubs

The school year had finished for them, so they returned home and can play some football at a time where they wouldn't be able to in Wellington.

And they will be heading back to Scots College? I heard from some people their scolarship ends this December.

https://oceaniafootballcenter.home.blog/2019/11/20...


BTW his side and of Leon Kofana won once again yesterday.

https://oceaniafootballcenter.home.blog/2019/11/21... - 3 matches, 6 goals. 

Is there any plan in Phoenix to use him when he turns 18? In ISPS Handa Premiership, maybe.

https://oceaniafootballcenter.home.blog/2019/11/26...

Updating: 4 matches, 10 goals for Lea'i. His club - Kofana too there - in the 1st place. 

Really, I know the level, but isn't it too impressive for a 17-year old? I really wanted to hear from you about him.