YOUNG SAMOAN SIGNS CONTRACT WITH ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE CLUB, BURNLEY

Marley Leuluai with his family when he signed his first professional contract. (Photo: Burnley FC)

Marley Leuluai has signed a professional contract at top-level soccer league, where the best teams from around the world compete. Marley's journey is not just about his skills but also his hard work and a promising future in the sport.

Marley's journey started when he signed a professional contract with Burnley, a team in the English Premier League, on his 17th birthday. Usually, players in the UK can't sign professional contracts until they're 17, but Marley's contract goes all the way to 2026, which is a big deal.

Marley was really happy and called it a dream come true. He found it easy to fit in at Burnley's Academy, where the way they play matches his own style. He proudly wore a traditional Samoan necklace, called the ulafala, when he signed his contract to honor his Samoan heritage.

Although being part of Burnley's U-18 and U-21 teams playing in the famous Premier League, has been a dream come true for now, he's focused on representing New Zealand in the U-17 World Cup.

Marley's moment of great pride came when he was named the captain for New Zealand during the OFC U-16 Men's Championship in January 2023. His parents were really happy and supportive because he had always wanted to play for New Zealand in football.

Marley appreciates his coach, Martin Bullock, for creating an environment where players can show their skills and take pride in representing their team. Marley and his teammates respect Coach Bullock for his guidance and knowledge of the game.

As Marley and the New Zealand U-17 team look forward to the World Cup, they know they'll face tough competition. They plan to take it one step at a time, starting with their first game against Venezuela. Marley's journey has not only made history but also gives hope for the future of Samoan soccer.

Marley's story shows that dreams, hard work, and talent can come from unexpected places. As he continues to rise in the world of soccer, he's an inspiration to young athletes in Samoa and worldwide. We're excited to see his future achievements on the soccer field and his impact on the sport.