Exclusive: Nigerian Amateur Footballer Earns Sevilla Trial After Viral Social Media Challenge

Football scouting has traditionally been a closed circuit; academy graduates, agent connections, and top-flight performances opening doors to the professional ranks. 

But in an age where social media has become a global stage, young, unsigned talents are rewriting the rules. From videos of outrageous skills going viral to clubs discovering hidden gems in the most unconventional ways, platforms like Twitter (X), Instagram, and TikTok are proving to be modern-day talent showcases.  

For Olagreat (@realolagreat on X), a Nigerian footballer with big dreams, Twitter became his gateway to opportunity. In what seemed like an audacious long shot, he took to X and asked Sevilla FC for a trial. 

The club’s social media admin responded with a challenge: 100,000 retweets; a daunting number that would have deterred most. But the power of community, resilience, and sheer determination turned that dream into reality.  

Within 26 hours, Olagreat had shattered the target. The viral campaign drew support from fans across Africa and beyond, proving that talent and opportunity can meet in the unlikeliest of places. 

Now, with a trial secured, the young Nigerian is preparing for what could be the biggest moment of his footballing journey.  

In this exclusive interview with SportsBoom.com, he opens up about his viral moment, his mindset heading into the trial, and what this means for young footballers worldwide.  

The Tweet That Changed Everything

When Osineye Oladipupo alias "Olagreat" sent that tweet, he knew it was a long shot, but he also knew one thing: he had to try.

“Sending out the tweet was borne out of the desire to become a professional footballer. When the target was set, it became the ultimate goal for me, and thanks to many of my mutuals on X and the support of Africans at large, I was able to hit the target.”

A response from Sevilla was never guaranteed, yet he remained hopeful.

“I wasn’t really expecting a response at the time, but I knew if I did it for many days, I would have eventually gotten one. Getting that reply almost immediately woke up my innate nature of resilience and spurred me on to achieve that goal."

“To be very honest, the 100K mark was a Herculean task, and thanks to everyone on the X app, it was achieved in just over 26 hours.”

The challenge was more than just a numbers game; it was a test of belief, persistence, and the power of a supportive community.

"I'm Not Going There to Impress, I'm Going to Showcase"

With the trial now confirmed, the focus has shifted to preparation. But, for Olagreat, this isn’t about proving himself; it’s about showing what he already has.

“I don’t think ‘impressing’ is the word right now. I think it should be showcasing."

“Securing a tryout is just like securing an interview for a 9-to-5 job with a multinational company in Nigeria. You aren’t going there to impress the panel but to showcase what you already possess and give them reasons why you should be part of their company."

“Sevilla has given me that platform to showcase the talent embedded in me, and I just have to go there and show them that this talent is one they shouldn’t let pass by.”

“Mentally, I’m already in the ranks of Sevilla FC, and as of now, the focus is to get my physical state to be at that level.”

"Playing in La Liga is a Dream, Fitting in is the Work"

For Olagreat, securing a contract with Sevilla FC would be a massive achievement, not just because of the opportunity but because of what the club represents.

“Signing with Sevilla FC would be a really great achievement. They’re a team that exudes the immense passion of Spanish football."

“Being multiple winners of the Europa League is no mean feat, and having an opportunity to add to that much history would be a dream come true for me.”

Beyond Sevilla, La Liga itself is a dream destination.

“Playing in La Liga is also a dream for me. The intricacies involved in how they see and play football fascinate me a lot."

“Spanish teams really understand the pragmatism involved in winning a football game and do not shy away from going the extra mile to attain success."

“It is a really interesting league to watch, and to be a part of that system would be a great honour.”

But dreams are one thing; adapting to European football is another. Olagreat knows that making the transition from amateur football in Nigeria to an elite league like La Liga is no small feat.

“Fitting in is part of the footballing process that can’t be taken away at all. Of course, the level of playing in a top league is very different from playing amateur football.

“It’s my great pleasure to grind and work hard to be a great fit and also learn the European style, which is very different from how we play here in Nigeria.”

Will Sevilla Handle His Travel and Stay?

The Sevilla trialist touched on his travel and accommodation plan for the trials in Spain. Noting the club is yet to give much detail.  

“As of now, the club hasn’t given much detail yet but has simply acknowledged the fact that a great achievement has been made and that they are willing to give me the platform to showcase myself at the world stage."

“More details will definitely be given pretty soon.”  

Advice for Young Dreamers

Olagreat’s journey is more than a personal victory; it’s an inspiration for young footballers worldwide. His story proves that talent is only part of the equation. Visibility, persistence, and boldness are just as crucial.

“My number one advice is: always remain with God. He is the only one who guides and orders our steps as humans. That being said, faith without work is dead, so they should be prepared to work hard."

“Never shy away from putting yourself out there. No matter what it is that you put out, as long as it showcases your talent, people are always watching."

“Soon enough, it will be recognized. And also, never have self-doubt. It ruins your confidence and, in turn, makes you remain average.”

A New Era for Football Scouting: What This Means For Young Talents Globally

Olagreat’s story isn’t just about one player securing a trial; it’s about the changing landscape of football scouting. In an era where social media is a powerful equalizer, unsigned players no longer have to rely solely on scouts, agents, or traditional pathways.  

With the right approach, the right platform, and unwavering determination, players can create their own opportunities. Olagreat’s viral campaign proves that football’s future isn’t just happening on the pitch; it’s happening online, in real time, driven by those who dare to put themselves out there.  

As he prepares to step onto Sevilla’s training ground, one thing is already clear: his story has already changed the game for young talents worldwide.