English-born soccer player Karamoko Dembélé was playing alongside 20-year-olds at the age of 13. Two years later, the young prodigy has signed his first professional soccer contract.
The Guardian reports Scottish Premiership team Celtic Football Club offered the now 15-year-old a contract that will keep him at the club until 2021.
In a statement posted to Celtic's official website on Monday, Dembélé thanked his family for their constant support in his athletic endeavors.
"Getting attention at a young age has been hard, but I've obviously had my family to help me through that," the teen said in a statement. "You need to be strong mentally, you need to stay grounded, and you just need to get on with everything that you do on a daily basis."
Greatness runs in the family, according to KickOff.com. Dembélé is related to soccer legends Kolo and Yaya Touré. The Ivory Coast international players have both experienced long-term success in the sport, having played for clubs in France, Spain and England. Kolo currently serves as a technical assistant with Celtic, so he will be on hand to mentor Dembélé.
Over on Twitter, news of Dembélé's signing came as a delight to supporters of the club.
GREAT CALL BY RODGERS ON KARAMOKO DEMBELE.
The world's best young talent will travel with the senior squad on the trip to Dubai.
He turns 16 in February and will have every top club looking to recruit him.
Good move Brendan ????????????⚽
— Celtic Nation (@CelticNation67) December 22, 2018
Great news for Celtic and the fans with the young lad Karamoko Dembele signing a professional 3 year contract.
With guidance from the management team hopefully he'll become a big success at the club.— GerryBhoy (@retrobotik) December 24, 2018
Before inking a deal with Celtic, Dembélé was also rumored to sign with English Premier League clubs Chelsea Football Club and reigning title holders Manchester City Football Club.
Blavitize your inbox! Join our daily newsletter for fresh stories and breaking news.
Check these out:
Sasha Obama May Have Just Announced Her College Pick
Dad Who Went Viral For 'Level Up' Challenge Announces Good News About His Son's Battle With Cancer
