HARARE – How marvelous!

Aston Villa midfielder Marvelous Nakamba will on Friday launch his Under-17 football tournament in Bulawayo, which has generated a lot of interest since its announcement this week.

The English Premiership ace, who is currently in Zimbabwe for an off-season hiatus, said more than 400 youth players were set to benefit from the competition.

“We are excited to announce that we have finally received clearance to host the inaugural Marvelous Nakamba Under-17 football tournament,” he said through his newly-formed Marvelous Nakamba Foundation.

“It gives us great pleasure to know that we have the support of football custodians as we endeavour to empower grassroots football through this tournament that will see over 400 budding football get an opportunity to showcase the talent that we have in abundance.”

“We would also love to be quick to mention that due to Covid-19 protocols, this will be a closed event. We will make sure that all football lovers will be able to follow the action in the comfort of their homes as this tournament will be streamed live through social media,” Nakamba added.

The Aston Villa star said he took the initiative so as to support soccer development in Zimbabwe.

He added: “Grassroots football is a very important part of the survival of football, we have all come through the system of being afforded chances at the early stage and it is befitting that we continue the tradition of grassroots sports.

“We appreciate the approval from the custodians of football and it is hoped that the tournament will raise the curtain to the commencement of junior football in the country.”

The former Bantu Rovers player has been impressive at the English Premiership side, making 50 appearances including in their 2021 final match in which they won 2-1 against European Champions League winners Chelsea.