The Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) has appointed Englishman Nicholas De Long as the new National Youth Development Officer, in a move aimed at strengthening youth football development and talent identification in Rwanda.

De Long arrives with extensive experience in youth development, talent identification and coaching, having worked with several football institutions in England, including Portsmouth, Southampton, Bristol Rovers and Norwich City. He has also gained international experience through his work with Aris FC and India’s national teams.

His appointment is expected to bring additional expertise to Rwanda’s efforts to identify, develop and nurture young football talent across the country.

As National Youth Development Officer, De Long will be expected to contribute to the development of youth football structures, improve talent identification systems and support the growth of young players who could eventually progress to Rwanda’s national teams and professional clubs.

The appointment comes as Rwanda continues to invest in the development of football at grassroots and youth levels, with the long-term objective of creating a stronger pathway from young talent to elite football.

With his experience across different football environments, De Long will now begin his work in Rwanda, where his expertise could play an important role in shaping the next generation of Rwandan footballers.