At an age when many children struggle to wake up for school, 9-year-old Urban Negi has taken a significant step toward a professional football career. The young footballer of Indian origin has joined the Everton FC academy, one of the most respected youth systems in English football.
Urban Negi, who lives in South-East London, earned his place after delivering consistently strong performances at the grassroots level. Everton confirmed the signing following successful trials at the club’s youth training facility, Finch Farm, where coaches were impressed by his technical quality and game awareness. The Kid has a dream to represent Team India internationally.
This article on Odds96 explains who Urban Negi is and how the 9-year-old earned a move to Everton FC.
Early Rise Through Grassroots Football
Negi first gained attention at the age of 7 while playing for Dynamo Youth FC, a local club known for developing young talent. His ball control, composure, and decision-making under pressure stood out against players of the same age group, quickly attracting interest from elite academies.
Several videos of Negi have gone viral on social media, highlighting his close control, dribbling ability, and confidence on the ball. These clips have drawn widespread attention in India, where representation in Premier League academies remains rare for players of Indian origin.
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Role Model and Playing Inspiration
Urban Negi closely follows Everton FC and looks up to the club’s No. 10, Iliman Ndiaye, as his role model. He admires Ndiaye’s creativity and playing style and aims to develop similar qualities in his own game.
Everton’s decision to sign Negi aligns with the club’s new youth recruitment strategy, led by Technical Director Nick Cox. The club has expanded its scouting network and strengthened its pre-academy program, with a clear focus on identifying elite talent at a very young age.
According to Everton’s recruitment plan, the club aims to assess top prospects from the U-8 age group each season and provide players and their families with a world-class development pathway.
Urban Negi’s journey marks another positive step for young footballers of Indian origin aspiring to succeed on the global stage.
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Negi’s Family Reflects on His Everton Signing Journey
Through his Instagram account, Urban Negi’s family shared an emotional message on 18 November 2025, reflecting on the young footballer’s journey.
“So incredibly proud of our 9-year-old, even though he was signed at U8s but missed his signing event in May, but finally had it last week at Brand new Blues’ stunning home. Making the big move was never an easy decision. Urbs, leaving behind his friends, school, and everything familiar to start fresh in a new city, was incredibly tough. And at just 9 years old, it takes immense courage and resilience. Urbs has navigated these changes with such bravery. He’s had to say goodbye to his London mates and step into a completely new environment, making new friends and finding his feet all over again.
He made it look easy!! This isn’t just about football; it’s a testament to his incredible spirit and determination. He’s finding his place, not just in a new city, but on the pitch with a fantastic new club and his top team mates. We couldn’t be prouder of how he’s embraced this new chapter.”
Here’s to new beginnings, new friends, and an exciting journey ahead #everton #hilldickinsonstadium #upthetoffees #evertonfc.
