Oluwasomidotun “Dotun” Ogunkoya, aged 16, currently represents the Dallas Hornets MLS 2 side and has earned a spot in the Gothia Cup in Sweden after impressing during his tenure at Valencia FC Academy in Spain. Ogunkoya spent a year in Valencia’s youth setup, where his pace, technique and maturity stood out against talented peers.
Academy coaches described him as “exceptionally coachable and tactically aware”, crediting him with a string of key goals and assists in regional tournaments. His performances reportedly caught the attention of scouts from across Europe.
Since transferring to the Dallas Hornets in late 2024, Dotun has continued his rise, earning regular minutes in the MLS 2 league and becoming a focal point in the team’s attacking play. His new club confirmed that selection for the Gothia Cup was a direct reward for his contributions at both academy and professional levels.
Speaking on the move, Dotun said “The Gothia Cup is one of the world’s greatest youth tournaments. I’m eager to test myself and show what I’ve learned in Spain and the United States.” Dallas Hornets’ youth director added “Dotun’s versatility he adapts to games as a winger or striker made him an obvious choice.”
The Gothia Cup, held annually in Gothenburg, regularly draws over 1,500 teams from around 80 countries. Dotun will line up alongside teammates from the U17 squad, aiming to combine success on the pitch with cultural exchange.
Editorial
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We welcome Dotun Ogunkoya’s journey as a testament to the global pathways now available to bright young Nigerians. His move from Spain to the US, and now to a major international youth tournament, highlights not only individual ambition but a supportive system that nurtures talent across continents.
We believe his technical growth at Valencia FC Academy and the seamless transition into competitive MLS 2 football signposts a maturation rare for his age. Coaches and scouts are increasingly recognising that young players who seek diverse challenges often progress faster and with more resilience.
We also appreciate how his inclusion in the Gothia Cup squad underlines the importance of exposure beyond domestic leagues. Youth tournaments like this not only elevate a player’s game but also expand their worldview and footballing IQ through multicultural engagement.
We began by celebrating his rise we conclude by reinforcing our view this is the kind of multi-step development that defines modern football success. Dotun Ogunkoya is not just chasing trophies he’s crafting a pathway. We look forward to watching his next chapters unfold.
Did You Know?
- The Gothia Cup is the world’s largest youth football tournament, bringing together over 50,000 young players annually.
- Valencia FC Academy has produced stars such as Ferran Torres and José Luis Gayà.
- Dallas Hornets MLS 2 is affiliated with MLS expansion club Charlotte FC, offering a direct route to top-level American football.
- Players who excel at the Gothia Cup have historically attracted interest from elite European clubs and scouts.
- Dotun can play across the front line, featuring both as a winger and a central striker—showcasing rare tactical flexibility.
