A CHILD refugee is on the fringes of the first team for Roma just two years after fleeing Cameroon and being abandoned by a trafficker at a train station.
This is the inspirational story of Joseph Perfection Bouasse Ombiogno.
Now 18, he is part of the youth set-up at the Serie A club — and training with the likes of Francesco Totti and Radja Nainggolan.
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His journey is one of hardship and betrayal, but one which could end with incredible success.
Joseph Bouasse was one of many desperate children who left their families behind with the hope of a new life in Europe.
When he reached the shores of Italy following his arduous journey, all he had with him was his dreams and aspirations.
He was approached by a man who promised him a career as a footballer, but when he arrived at Rome’s Termini Station he was abandoned and alone.
Bouasse, just 16 and a world away from his family, sought refuge at a local centre. He was picked up by Liberi Nantes — Italy’s only team made up solely of refugees.
There he began to enjoy himself and rediscovered his passion for life.
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Roma XIs and ‘legends’ teams regularly play friendlies against Liberi Nantes — and the Italian giants were alerted to a “special” talent within the side.
And that was how Bouasse was spotted. He was brought to the Trigoria training ground in July 2015 and began to train with the youth team.
He is a physically strong midfielder, with a good touch and likes to get further forward — in terms of his position, he could even replace Totti.
Bouasse turned 18 on September 1st, and immediately signed his first permanent contract.
In the past month, he has been invited by manager Luciano Spalletti to train with the first team — and has been tutored by Daniele De Rossi.
The youngster is far from overawed by his new surroundings, having been advised by the boss to go easier with his challenges on the training pitch.
After the paperwork was complete, he finally made his debut for the under-19s in Saturday’s 2-0 win at Crotone.
He showed he has the physical prowess and competency with dribbling.
Spalletti is keeping a close eye on the 18-year-old.
And, two years after being abandoned and left with nothing, he could soon be living every young boy’s dream.
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