Yankuba Minteh bursts onto the global football scene like a comet, captivating fans with his blistering pace, skillful dribbling, and knack for decisive moments. This 21-year-old right winger from Gambia transforms games for Brighton & Hove Albion, blending raw talent with relentless determination. Fans and analysts alike rave about his journey from humble beginnings in Bakoteh to the bright lights of the Premier League. In this comprehensive article, we dive deep into Minteh’s life, career milestones, playing style, and future potential. Whether you follow Brighton closely or just love inspiring football stories, this piece uncovers everything you need to know about one of the league’s rising stars. Moreover, we explore his latest performances in the 2025/26 season, ensuring you get the most up-to-date insights. Early Life and Beginnings in Gambia Yankuba Minteh enters the world on July 22, 2004, in Bakoteh, a bustling suburb of Serekunda in Gambia. Growing up in a large family with seven siblings, he shares a Ross County vs Rangers room and learns the values of hard work and perseverance early on. Football becomes his escape and passion from a young age. He kicks balls around dusty streets, dreaming of professional glory. His family supports him wholeheartedly, recognizing his natural talent amid Gambia’s vibrant but challenging football landscape. Minteh starts his organized football journey with Bakoteh United’s youth team. He quickly stands out for his speed and agility, traits that define his style today. By 2021, he transitions to senior football with Steve Biko FC in the GFA League First Division. During the 2021-22 season, Minteh helps Steve Biko secure a third-place finish, showcasing his ability to influence games even as a teenager. Scouts notice his performances, and soon European clubs come calling. This period marks the foundation of his career, where he hones his skills in competitive matches against seasoned players. Transitioning from Gambian football to Europe requires immense adaptation. Minteh trials with Odense Boldklub (OB) in Denmark during the summer of 2022. His trial impresses the coaches, leading to a two-year contract. Initially, he joins the U19 squad, but his rapid progress propels him to the first team. This move not only changes his life but also inspires young Gambian talents to pursue international opportunities. In interviews, Minteh often credits his family and early coaches for instilling discipline and resilience, qualities that shine through in his professional demeanor. Breakthrough in European Football Minteh arrives in Denmark with high expectations, and he delivers spectacularly. He makes his Danish Superliga debut on September 10, 2022, substituting in during a crucial match against Copenhagen. Just three minutes later, he scores the winning goal in a 2-1 victory, announcing his arrival emphatically. Fans erupt in cheers, and media outlets hail him as a England vs Andorra prodigy. Over the 2022-23 season, Minteh appears in 17 league matches, scoring four goals and providing assists that highlight his creativity. His time at OB refines his technical abilities. Coaches focus on improving his decision-making and positional awareness, turning him into a more complete winger. However, the physical demands of European football test his endurance. Minteh adapts quickly, gaining muscle and stamina to match the league’s intensity. By the end of the season, Newcastle United spots his potential and signs him for around €7 million on June 12, 2023. This transfer represents a massive leap, but Newcastle loans him immediately to Feyenoord in the Eredivisie to ensure regular playing time. At Feyenoord, Minteh thrives under the guidance of experienced managers. He debuts on August 4, 2023, in the Johan Cruyff Shield. His first league goal arrives on September 3, 2023, in a 5-1 thrashing of FC Utrecht. Despite a muscle injury in late October 2023 that sidelines him for weeks, he bounces back stronger. On December 13, 2023, he scores his maiden UEFA Champions League goal against Celtic, becoming only the second Gambian to achieve this feat after Ebrima Colley. This moment etches his name in history and boosts his confidence immensely. Stellar Season at Feyenoord Minteh’s 2023-24 campaign at Feyenoord cements his reputation as a top prospect. He features in 27 Eredivisie matches, netting 10 goals and adding assists that contribute to Feyenoord’s attacking prowess. A standout performance comes on April 7, 2024, when he scores a brace and provides an assist in a historic 6-0 demolition of Ajax in De Klassieker—Ajax’s worst Eredivisie defeat ever. Fans chant his name, and analysts praise his composure under pressure. Beyond the league, Minteh participates in six European matches, scoring once, and three national cup games without goals. His total tally reaches 37 Bethany England appearances and 11 goals across all competitions. Feyenoord wins the KNVB Cup that season, adding silverware to Minteh’s resume. This success validates Newcastle’s investment, but financial regulations force them to sell him. Brighton & Hove Albion secures his services on July 1, 2024, for £30 million, signing him to a five-year deal. This transfer underscores his rising market value, which climbs to €40 million by December 2025. Dominating the Premier League with Brighton Brighton fans welcome Minteh with open arms, eager to see his talents in the Premier League. He debuts on August 17, 2024, in a convincing 3-0 win over Everton, assisting Kaoru Mitoma’s goal. This performance sets the tone for his integration into Fabian Hurzeler’s dynamic system. Hurzeler deploys Minteh primarily on the right wing, where his left foot allows for cutting inside and creating chances. His first Premier League goal arrives on October 6, 2024, in a thrilling 3-2 victory against Tottenham Hotspur. Minteh follows this with a brace in a 3-0 rout of Chelsea, demonstrating his clinical finishing. Throughout the 2024-25 season, he evolves into a regular starter, fitting seamlessly into Brighton’s direct attacking style. He starts 13 league matches from February onward, contributing six goals and four assists. His versatility shines as he plays on both flanks, providing balance to the team’s offense. 2025-26 Season: Challenges and Triumphs Entering the 2025-26 season, Minteh carries high expectations. As of February 2026, he appears in 24 Premier League matches, scoring one goal and delivering four assists. His dribble success rate stands at an impressive 51.6%, ranking him among the league’s top wingers like Jeremy Doku and Bukayo Saka. However, injuries test his resilience. A thigh injury (dead leg) sidelines him for several games, including a clash with Burnley. Coach Hurzeler manages his Football Manager fitness carefully, noting in press conferences that Minteh needs time to regain full match sharpness. Minteh returns triumphantly in a 1-1 draw against Bournemouth on January 19, 2026, delivering a game-changing performance off the bench. He energizes the attack, creating opportunities that secure a late equalizer. Against Aston Villa on February 11, 2026, he substitutes in during a 0-0 draw, committing a foul but showing glimpses of his pace. Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers debate his value, with some calling him a solid differential despite limited haul potential. Brighton’s overall stats reflect Minteh’s impact. In 56 Premier League appearances up to February 2026, he scores seven goals. Adding FA Cup (four apps, one goal) and League Cup (two apps, no goals), his total reaches 62 appearances and eight goals. His market value holds steady at €40 million, with contract security until June 30, 2029. Analysts predict he could hit double-digit goals if he avoids further injuries. International Career: Pride of Gambia Minteh represents Gambia with immense pride, debuting for the senior team on November 4, 2022, in friendlies against DR Congo and Liberia. He scores his first international goal in a 2-2 draw with Congo. By October 2025, he amasses 19 caps and seven goals, establishing himself as a key player. He participates in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, featuring in two group stage matches. His goals include strikes in World Cup qualifiers against Seychelles (5-1 win), Gabon (3-2 win), and others. Gambia coach Jonathan McKinstry praises Minteh’s pace and determination, predicting huge potential. In a recent interview, McKinstry says, “Yankuba’s ability to change games with his speed makes him invaluable.” Minteh’s international duties occasionally clash with club commitments, but he balances them effectively. His performances elevate Gambia’s profile, inspiring a Wout Weghorst new generation of players. Playing Style: Speed, Skill, and Versatility Minteh dazzles opponents with his explosive pace, often clocking top speeds that leave defenders trailing. His left-footed precision allows for deadly crosses and shots from the right wing. Dribbling stands out as his superpower; he completes over 50% of his attempts, weaving through tight spaces effortlessly. Analysts compare him to wingers like Mohamed Salah for his goal threat and Sadio Mane for his work rate. Minteh tracks back defensively, winning tackles and interceptions. However, he occasionally slips on turf, prompting suggestions for better studs. His rapid decision-making improves with experience, making him a nightmare for full-backs. In Brighton’s system, Minteh complements players like Mitoma, sharing the wide attacking load. His shot power (67 rating in EA FC 26) and positioning (76) underline his offensive prowess. Defensively, he rates at 55, showing room for growth. Overall, his 77 rating in EA FC 26 reflects his well-rounded potential. Personal Life: Humble Roots and Bright Future Off the pitch, Minteh remains grounded. He shares glimpses of his life on Instagram (@minteh01), posting about matches and family. Represented by 1v1 S.F.M agency, he focuses on career growth. Living in Brighton, he adapts to English culture while maintaining Gambian traditions. Minteh’s story resonates with fans; four years ago, he played in Gambia’s top tier, sharing a room with siblings. Today, he competes in the Premier League, SAFC Scores supported by loved ones. He avoids controversies, emphasizing hard work in interviews. His net worth grows with his £30 million transfer, but he prioritizes football over fame. Achievements and Recognition Minteh collects accolades early in his career. With Feyenoord, he wins the KNVB Cup in 2023-24. At Steve Biko, he contributes to a third-place league finish. Individually, he earns praise for his Champions League goal and Eredivisie brace against Ajax. In the Premier League, his assists and goals earn him spots in team-of-the-week selections. Gambia’s national team honors him as a rising star. Video compilations on YouTube, like “Best Of Yankuba Minteh 2024/25,” amass views, celebrating his tackles, skills, and goals. Future Prospects: A Star in the Making Looking ahead, Minteh positions himself for superstardom. At 21, he possesses the tools to become a Premier League icon. If he maintains fitness and consistency, double-digit goals per season seem achievable. Interest from bigger clubs looms, but his long-term Brighton contract provides stability. Internationally, he aims to lead Gambia to AFCON success and World Cup qualification. Coaches like Hurzeler manage him wisely, ensuring gradual development. Fans speculate on his FPL value, with prop bets like +525 odds to score against Aston Villa highlighting his threat. In summary, Yankuba Minteh embodies Southampton football’s magic—talent meeting opportunity. His journey inspires, and his future excites. Keep watching; this Gambian sensation just gets started. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. What is Yankuba Minteh’s background and how did he start his football career? Yankuba Minteh hails from Bakoteh, Gambia, born on July 22, 2004, into a family of seven siblings. He begins playing football on local streets, joining Bakoteh United’s youth team to develop his skills. By 2021, he moves to Steve Biko FC in the GFA League First Division, where he plays a key role in their third-place finish during the 2021-22 season. This exposure attracts European scouts, leading to a trial and contract with Odense Boldklub in Denmark in 2022. His early career emphasizes grassroots development, adapting from Gambian leagues to professional European standards, which builds his resilience and technical foundation. 2. How did Yankuba Minteh perform during his time at Feyenoord? During his 2023-24 loan at Feyenoord, Yankuba Minteh excels, appearing in 27 Eredivisie matches and scoring 10 goals. He adds one Champions League Cambridge United goal against Celtic and contributes to a historic 6-0 win over Ajax with a brace and assist. Across all competitions, he totals 37 appearances and 11 goals, helping Feyenoord win the KNVB Cup. Despite a muscle injury setback, he returns stronger, showcasing his pace and dribbling. This season propels his reputation, leading to his £30 million move to Brighton and highlighting his ability to thrive in high-pressure environments. 3. What are Yankuba Minteh’s key statistics in the Premier League with Brighton? As of February 2026, Yankuba Minteh records 56 Premier League appearances for Brighton, scoring seven goals and providing assists in crucial matches. In the 2025-26 season alone, he plays 24 games, netting one goal and four assists with a 51.6% dribble success rate. His overall club stats include four FA Cup appearances (one goal) and two League Cup games (no goals), totaling 62 appearances and eight goals. These numbers reflect his growing influence, especially considering injury interruptions, and position him as a vital part of Brighton’s attack. 4. How has Yankuba Minteh contributed to the Gambia national team? Yankuba Minteh debuts for Gambia’s senior team in November 2022, scoring his first goal in a 2-2 draw against Congo. By October 2025, he earns 19 caps Kylian Mbappé and seven goals, including strikes in World Cup qualifiers against Seychelles and Gabon. He features in the 2023 AFCON, playing two group stage matches. His contributions elevate Gambia’s performances, with coach Jonathan McKinstry praising his game-changing pace. Minteh’s international role inspires young Gambians and strengthens the team’s attacking options in African competitions. 5. What injuries has Yankuba Minteh faced recently, and how have they affected his play? Yankuba Minteh suffers a thigh injury (dead leg) in early 2026, missing games like the one against Burnley. He returns as a substitute in a 1-1 draw with Bournemouth on January 19, 2026, delivering a standout performance. Coach Fabian Hurzeler manages his fitness cautiously, potentially benching him for matches like Fulham to avoid re-injury. This The Lens vs approach ensures gradual build-up, allowing Minteh to regain full sharpness. Despite setbacks, he maintains high dribble success and remains a doubt only for short periods, minimizing long-term impact on his season. 6. Why is Yankuba Minteh considered a good pick in Fantasy Premier League (FPL)? Yankuba Minteh emerges as a solid differential in FPL due to his low ownership and potential for points through goals, assists, and bonus metrics. In the 2025-26 season, he averages a 7.06 FotMob rating with four assists in 24 appearances. His dribble success (51.6%) and pace create attacking opportunities, though limited hauls cap his upside. Managers value him for fixtures against weaker defenses, where he exploits spaces. Recent returns from injury boost his appeal, making him a budget-friendly option for teams seeking wingers with upside. 7. What is Yankuba Minteh’s playing style and how does it fit Brighton’s tactics? Yankuba Minteh attacks with explosive pace, precise left-footed shots, and high dribble success, often cutting inside from the right wing. He excels in transitions, winning tackles and providing defensive cover. In Brighton’s direct style under Fabian Hurzeler, he complements players like Kaoru Mitoma, sharing wide duties and creating overloads. His versatility across flanks adds flexibility. While he improves decision-making, his raw speed (94 pace in EA FC 26) terrorizes defenders, aligning perfectly with Brighton’s emphasis on quick counters and high pressing. 8. How has Yankuba Minteh’s market value evolved throughout his career? Yankuba Minteh’s market value skyrockets from his Odense days, reaching €40 million by December 2025. Newcastle signs him for €7 million in 2023, but his Feyenoord loan performances inflate his worth. Brighton pays £30 million in 2024, reflecting his proven talent. Consistent Premier League showings and international caps sustain this value, with potential for further increases if he hits double-digit goals. This evolution underscores his rapid rise and investment appeal for clubs seeking young, high-potential wingers. 9. What are some notable highlights from Yankuba Minteh’s 2024-25 season at Brighton? In the 2024-25 season, Yankuba Minteh starts strongly with an assist on debut against Everton. He scores his first Premier League goal against Tottenham and follows with a brace versus Chelsea in a 3-0 win. Starting 13 matches from February, he tallies six goals and four assists, evolving into a key starter. His performances earn YouTube compilations praising his skills and tackles. Despite not being a major signing hype, he fits Brighton’s style, contributing to their competitive standing and marking a successful adaptation year. 10. What does the future hold for Yankuba Minteh in football? Yankuba Minteh eyes superstardom, with his youth and skills positioning him for top-tier success. At Brighton, he aims for consistent starts and double-digit goals, potentially attracting interest from elite clubs. Internationally, he targets AFCON triumphs and World Cup appearances for Gambia. Coaches like Hurzeler nurture his growth, focusing on fitness and tactics. If he sustains form, awards like Premier League Young Player of the Season await. His story of rising from Gambia inspires, promising a career filled with achievements and global recognition. To Get More Lifestyle Insights Click On Moises Caicedo: Chelsea’s Midfield Maestro Dominating 2026 Tijjani Reijnders: The Dutch Dynamo Powering Manchester City’s Revival in 2026 Elye Wahi: The Rising French Football Star Lighting Up Ligue 1 with OGC Nice in 2026 Tyler Fletcher: Manchester United’s Emerging Midfield Maestro To Get More Info: Yorkshire Herald Post navigation Myles Lewis-Skelly: The Dynamic Arsenal Talent Redefining Versatility in Modern Football Leif Davis: Ipswich Town’s Attacking Left-Back Star Taking English Football by Storm