Sepuya tips Ugandan players on path to Europe

Uganda Crested Cranes defender Shadia Nankya has become the fourth most expensive female footballer in Africa following her recent move to Le Havre AC Féminines in France’s topflight women’s league.

The transfer was brokered by Eugene Sepuya of Sepuya Inc Agency, who revealed that Nankya now ranks among the continent’s most valuable players.

“The fact is that Shadia is the fourth most expensive player in Africa after Racheal Kundananji, Barbra Banda and Asisat Oshoala,” Sepuya told Vision Sport in an interview.

Nankya in action. Courtesy photo

Nankya joined the French club at the start of this month from Washington Spirit in the United States, signing a one-and-a-half-year contract. The move makes her the first Ugandan female footballer to play in France.

The defender’s journey has been shaped through the local football system, having previously played for St Noa Girls, Uganda Martyrs Lubaga Women FC and UCU Lady Cardinals before she moved to Egypt’s Masar FC, and later to Washington Spirit, had a loan spell at Dallas Trinity both in the States.

Sepuya credited the player’s discipline, focus and trust in the agency’s long-term vision for her success.

“First of all, we would like to thank Shadia for understanding our vision and goals. She had faith in what we were trying to accomplish with her over the past three years. I also extend our gratitude to everyone who has had a hand in her journey because nothing can be achieved alone in football,” he said.

He added that Nankya attracted interest from several European clubs before settling on Le Havre.

“There were many inquiries from clubs in France, Italy, Sweden, Spain and Denmark, but we felt the right organisation for her development going forward was Le Havre,” he explained.

While Sepuya declined to reveal the defender’s exact salary, he noted that the deal includes a competitive wage package and incentives, including support for Nankya to complete her master’s degree in France.

“When it comes to wages, we keep our clients’ information private. It is the club and the player’s duty to reveal it or not. But I can assure you she is earning what she deserves, and the package also allows her to finish her master’s degree, which we emphasise because there is life after football,” he noted.

Sepuya also urged Ugandan footballers to remain focused and make the right career decisions if they are to break into Europe’s top leagues.

He argued that professionalism, honesty from agents and trust in development pathways are essential if more Ugandan players are to follow Nankya’s path.

Welcoming their new signing, Le Havre praised the defender’s qualities and experience.

“A globetrotter is joining the Sky Blues. Having committed until June 30, 2027, this athletic player, who will wear number five, is eager to show her qualities in our colours. Welcome, Shadia,” the club said in a statement.

Nankya made her debut for Le Havre AC Féminines on March 10 in a 3-0 home defeat to league leaders Olympique Lyonnais Féminin.