Italian Serie A club Como 1907 arrived in Ghana on Saturday, June 6, for a week-long football development project. The initiative aims to foster grassroots football and community engagement across the nation, following the club’s successful 2025/26 season which saw them qualify for the UEFA Champions League under manager Cesc Fàbregas.
Community Engagement and Grassroots Development
The delegation, comprising the club’s academy team and coaching staff, is set to engage in a series of activities designed to make a lasting impact. These include community outreach programs and the establishment of local football leagues.
Como 1907 will also donate essential football equipment, such as balls and uniforms, to support aspiring young players. Furthermore, coaching workshops will be conducted to enhance the skills of local coaches and young athletes.
Camilla Veronelli, Head of Community Relations & Sustainability at Como 1907, highlighted the club’s motivation for returning to Ghana. “We came back to Ghana because last year’s experience was amazing. We had the opportunity to work with the kids and teach them football, and we’re very excited to be here once again,” she stated.
Long-Term Commitment to African Football
The project signifies a deeper, long-term commitment to African football development. Laura Hansen, Founder of Sports Creates Memories NGO, emphasized the collaborative effort’s goals.
“We want to build an infrastructure for African football and make a difference for as many children in Ghana as possible through sport and football,” Hansen explained. She added that Como’s Champions League qualification underscores their dedication to making a tangible difference.
Inspiring Future Generations
The initiative is also seen as a crucial platform for inspiring the next generation of footballers. Oliver Arthur, CEO of Arthur Legacy Sports, believes the project will demonstrate the achievability of dreams through hard work and dedication.
“We are supporting this initiative to make it a memorable experience for the children. We are bringing together young players and the team from Como to show them that every child can have the opportunity to play football,” Arthur said. He further elaborated, “Como are here to let these kids know that it is possible to succeed if you dream and work hard.”
Broader Implications and Future Outlook
This project by Como 1907 extends beyond mere football training; it represents a model for how European clubs can leverage their influence for positive social impact in developing footballing regions. By investing in grassroots infrastructure and providing mentorship, Como 1907 aims to cultivate talent and foster a sustainable football ecosystem in Ghana.
The collaboration with local NGOs and sports organizations ensures that the development efforts are tailored to the specific needs of the Ghanaian communities. The involvement of the academy team and coaching staff provides direct, hands-on experience for the young Ghanaian players, potentially opening pathways for future opportunities.
As Como 1907 continues its engagement throughout the week, the focus will be on the tangible outcomes of these interactions. Observers will be watching to see how the established community leagues function and the long-term impact of the coaching workshops on local football standards. The success of this initiative could inspire similar projects from other clubs, potentially reshaping how European football engages with talent development across Africa.
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