Former Liverpool youngster Abdi Sharif concluded his debut season with Wigan Athletic by becoming the first Somali player to feature in the English Football Championship. Sharif’s path to this landmark achievement started when he and his family moved from Somalia and settled in Toxteth. At just six years old, he joined Liverpool’s academy and climbed the ranks, even playing for Steven Gerrard’s under-18s squad.
Liverpool released Sharif in 2021 without a senior appearance. Undeterred, he signed with Wigan in June 2021 after spending over a year without a club. Initially playing for their under-21s, Sharif gained valuable senior football experience during a brief loan spell at Telford United.
Wigan’s relegation to League One in April presented manager Shaun Maloney with an opportunity to incorporate young talent into the first team. Sharif made his historic debut as a substitute in a 0-0 draw against Rotherham on the Championship season’s final day.
Reflecting on his journey, Abdi Sharif said, “It’s been a challenging road, but I’m proud to represent my country as the first Somali player in the Championship. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had, both at Liverpool and now with Wigan.”
The Somali community is also extremely proud of Sharif’s accomplishments. Somali football enthusiast Abdirahman Mohamed noted, “Sharif’s success is an inspiration to all of us, especially the younger generation. It shows that hard work and determination can make anything possible.”
Facing financial challenges and the departure of senior players, Wigan Athletic’s manager Maloney will likely build around a young core, potentially featuring Sharif. Steven Gerrard, Sharif’s former coach, praised him in a 2018 interview, stating that Sharif “can hit big numbers.” As part of academy director Alex Inglethorpe’s Alumni Project, Sharif maintains contact with Liverpool, and the club is expected to congratulate him on his recent achievement.
Abdi Sharif’s journey from a Somali immigrant to his historic Championship debut highlights his determination, talent, and persistence. As his career progresses, the football world will watch this rising star with keen interest.
