17-Year-Old Talent Chooses Bees Over Interest from Germany and Italy.

Chris Irénée Ntamack Pondy to Brentford

Brentford have won the race for one of African football’s brightest young talents, securing a verbal agreement to sign Chris Irénée Ntamack Pondy from Cameroon’s Dauphine Academy Sport Center.

The 17-year-old centre-back (born March 16, 2008) caught the eye with strong performances for Cameroon U17 at the 2025 CAF U17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, earning four caps despite the team’s elimination.

Despite interest from clubs in Germany and Italy, the talented defender has chosen Brentford’s pathway for young players, aligning with the Bees’ reputation for developing and integrating academy prospects into the first team.

Represented by A2B Sports Management, Pondy is expected to join Brentford’s development setup, with potential for rapid progression under Thomas Frank’s guidance.

This move continues Brentford’s smart recruitment strategy, focusing on high-potential youngsters from global markets.

Official confirmation and deal details – including any fee – are anticipated soon, with medical and paperwork to follow.