Kenyan-eligible winger Maik Nelson Afri Akumu has sealed a move to Bundesliga club FC Koln from Hertha BSC, signing a long-term contract with the Billy Goats on Wednesday, August 13, 2025.

The 17-year-old, born in Berlin to a Kenyan father and an English mother, joins fellow Harambee Stars-eligible winger Linton Maina at the RheinEnergieStadion. Akumu, who has represented Germany at the U-17 level, was part of Hertha’s pre-season squad but opted to continue his development in Cologne.

“FC has signed Maik Afri Akumu from Hertha BSC. The 17-year-old attacking talent is moving from the capital to Geißbockheim and signed a long-term contract with FC on Wednesday. Warm welcome to Cologne, Maik!” Koln confirmed the signing in a statement posted on X on Thursday, 14, 2025.

Koln’s technical director, Lukas Berg, hailed Akumu as one of the most exciting players in his age group.

“We have been following Maik for a long time and are proud to have secured his signature. He is a highly talented attacker who will get all the time and support needed to settle in and reach his potential here in Cologne.”

Akumu is primarily a left winger but can also operate on the right or as a centre forward. Known for his pace, close control, and ability to take on defenders in one-on-one situations, he could prove a valuable asset to any team in need of width and creativity.

Teen star joins Cologne

Speaking after signing, the teenager expressed excitement about the move.

“From the beginning, FC made me feel valued and gave me a great feeling. The team’s performances last season impressed me and showed me I’m in the right place. Now I’m looking forward to giving my all with the team.”

Akumu was born on July 13, 2008, and has gone through all of Hertha’s youth teams since the U9. As a nominal U17 player, the left winger already gained experience in the U19 as well as in Hertha’s second team in the past season.

For the U19, Akumu contributed two goals and one assist in five matches. In the U17, he scored eight goals in ten games during the first half of the season. The German U17 national player was able to get his first taste of men’s football in March on matchday 27 of the Regionalliga Nordost. In the narrow 0-1 defeat against FSV Luckenwalde, Maik Afri Akumu played 34 minutes for the capital club’s second team.

For Harambee Stars, Akumu’s eligibility opens an intriguing possibility. Kenya has long struggled to produce consistent wingers, relying on makeshift solutions in recent years.