Asher Agbinone: Crystal Palace’s new rising star

Crystal Palace Academy graduate Asher Agbinone impresses in his Premier League debut against Nottingham Forest, highlighting the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent. — Asher Agbinone of Crystal Palace during the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest FC and Crystal Palace FC at City Ground on October 21, 2024 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by AFP)

Asher Chris Ofega Agbinone, a promising 19-year-old talent from Crystal Palace Academy, made his highly anticipated Premier League debut for the Eagles against Nottingham Forest, marking a significant milestone in his blossoming football career.

Born to a Nigerian father and French mother, Agbinone’s journey began at the age of nine when he joined Crystal Palace’s Academy. Over the years, he has honed his skills and developed into a versatile forward with an eye for goals.

On Monday night, all his hard work paid off as he stepped onto the Premier League stage, proudly following in the footsteps of other notable Academy graduates.

Crystal Palace’s Asher Agbinone (right) attempts to go past Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina during the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest FC and Crystal Palace FC at City Ground on October 21, 2024 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by AFP)

Agbinone’s football upbringing was shaped at the prestigious Whitgift School, the same institution that nurtured the talents of former Palace and Nigeria star Victor Moses. His explosive style of play, coupled with his ability to score and create opportunities, has made him a standout performer.

Among his key achievements are his Under-18 debut in the 2021/22 season and his first goal for the U18s in October 2022, which secured victory in the Premier League Cup against Sheffield United. His stellar form earned him a professional contract, a Goal of the Month award for a strike against Tottenham Hotspur U18s, and inclusion in the first team’s pre-season tour in the United States, where he scored in a 3-1 win over Wolves.

Reflecting on his Premier League debut, Agbinone expressed a mix of emotions, telling his club’s website, “I’m feeling good. Obviously, the result didn’t go as we wanted, so that kind of overshadows it, but I’m still grateful.” He also credited the influence of his manager and coaching staff for their encouragement, saying, “They encouraged me to take players on when I can.”

Agbinone’s rise not only highlights Crystal Palace’s commitment to nurturing young talent but also positions him as one of the brightest prospects in football. Eligible to represent four countries – Nigeria, England, France, and Congo Brazzaville – his future on the international stage is filled with possibilities.