Hartford Athletic have signed Sierra Leonean international Emmanuel Samadia ahead of the 2024 season, pending league and federation approval.
Samadia comes to Hartford after a three year stint with Hapoel Umm al-Fahm and Hapoel Rishon leZion of Liga Leumit, the second division of the Israeli Football League. He made 89 appearances from 2020-2023, logging 10 assists and scoring two goals. In January of 2023, he helped his side win the Liga Leumit Toto Cup.
“Emmanuel is a young ambitious player that has great potential. He is an exceptional athlete who has shown well for his national team against some of Africa’s best teams,” said Hartford Athletic CEO Nick Sakiewicz.
Samadia, a native of Freetown, Sierra Leone, began his professional career playing with FC Kallon of the Sierra Leone Premier League from 2019 to 2021. In 2020, he received his first call up to the Sierra Leone National Team and has received thirteen total international caps. Most recently, the 22 year old recorded assists in back to back matches against Nigeria and Guinea-Bissau in the 2023 African Cup of Nations Qualifiers.
More player signings will be announced in the coming weeks. Looking to lock up the best seats at Trinity Health Stadium to watch the Green and Blue in 2024? Secure the best seat options at the best prices when you purchase your season tickets today at HartfordAthletic.com/seasontickets.
