Yankuba Minteh: From Sand Pitches to Premier League Star
Early Life in The Gambia
Yankuba Minteh was born on July 22, 2004, in Bakoteh, a village near The Gambia’s largest city, Serekunda. Growing up, Yankuba loved playing football with his friends on sandy fields.
His father, Buhari, worked as a chef, and his mother, Mam, sold vegetables. Yankuba is one of seven children in his family.
Journey to Denmark
In 2021, Bojang arranged for Yankuba to try out with Odense Boldklub (OB), a football club in Denmark. At first, Yankuba found it challenging to adjust, but he didn’t give up. After a second chance, he impressed the coaches and, in July 2022, signed a contract with OB’s youth team.
READ ALSO: Meet Ludovic Ajorque: The Tall Soccer Star
Rising Through the Ranks
Yankuba’s hard work paid off quickly. On September 10, 2022, he made his debut for OB’s main team in a match against FC Copenhagen. Coming on as a substitute, he scored the winning goal just three minutes later, helping his team secure a 2-1 victory.
Move to Newcastle United
Yankuba’s talent caught the attention of bigger clubs. In June 2023, Newcastle United, a Premier League team in England, signed him.
However, due to work permit issues, he was loaned to Feyenoord, a top club in the Netherlands, for the 2023-2024 season.
Success at Feyenoord
At Feyenoord, Yankuba continued to shine. He made his debut on August 4, 2023, and scored his first goal for the club on September 3, 2023, in a 5-1 win against FC Utrecht.
Throughout the season, he scored 10 goals and provided six assists in 27 league appearances. His outstanding performance included scoring twice in a 6-0 victory over Ajax, one of Feyenoord’s biggest rivals.
Joining Brighton & Hove Albion
In July 2024, Yankuba transferred to Brighton & Hove Albion for a reported £30 million. He made his debut on August 17, 2024, assisting in a 3-0 win over Everton.
On October 6, 2024, he scored his first Premier League goal in a 3-2 comeback victory against Tottenham Hotspur. Recently, on February 14, 2025, Yankuba scored two goals in a 3-0 win over Chelsea, showcasing his growing importance to the team.
READ ALSO: Bradley Barcola: From Lyon’s Prodigy to PSG’s Rising Star
Playing Style and Personal Life
Standing at 1.80 meters tall, Yankuba plays primarily as a right winger. He’s known for his speed, agility, and ability to cut inside from the right to shoot with his left foot.
Off the field, Yankuba remains humble and focused. In 2024, he married his longtime partner and continues to stay connected with his family in The Gambia.
International Career
Yankuba made his debut for the Gambia national team on September 10, 2023, in a match against the Republic of Congo. Coming on after halftime, he scored his first international goal, helping his team secure a 2-2 draw.
Yankuba has made 20 appearances for Brighton & Hove Albion, scoring five goals. His recent performance against Chelsea has further solidified his reputation as a rising star in the Premier League. Fans and experts alike are excited to see how his career will continue to develop.
Yankuba Minteh’s journey from the sandy pitches of Bakoteh to the bright lights of the Premier League is a testament to his talent, determination, and the support of those who believed in him.
His story inspires many young footballers around the world, showing that with hard work and perseverance, dreams can come true.