Kenyan youngster Stanley Wilson dreams of playing in the English Premier League in the future, with a particular aspiration to join Arsenal, his dream club.
Wilson, who was recently signed by Swedish club AIK Football immediately after turning 18 last month, shared his ambitions in an interview with FotbollDirekt.
Wilson’s dream
“It would be a dream for me to play for Arsenal in the Premier League,” Wilson revealed.
Wilson is focused on succeeding at AIK to secure a better deal abroad. “I want to be successful with AIK. After a few years, maybe I’ll get a good deal abroad,” he added.
Wilson made his debut for AIK against Värnamo, and he’s thrilled to have started his professional career with a win.
Reflecting on his debut, he said, “To make my debut as an 18-year-old in a senior team, I was very excited. I am so thankful and happy about this. It’s a big step for me. I’m very happy to have a professional contract with AIK.”
Prepared both physically and mentally from training sessions, Wilson says he eagerly awaited his debut.
“I was very curious about how it would feel and had been eagerly waiting for that moment—and it finally came. I felt very happy. You know, to make my debut as an 18-year-old in a senior team, I was very excited,” he shared.
The midfielder is enjoying his new life in Sweden and has been impressed with the hospitality at AIK.
“For me, AIK is my new home and my new family. I love the hospitality at AIK; they are very welcoming. I really love it here.”
Wilson, originally from Nakuru, Kenya, attributes much of his comfort at AIK to his teammates, particularly Lamine Dabo, with whom he enjoys a close bond.
“Most of the team are experienced players, and they have treated me well, knowing that I am a young and promising player. They give everything to make me better. I think it’s Lamine Dabo, yes,” he stated.
Living in Sweden has been a new experience for Wilson, one that he has grown to appreciate despite the differences from Kenya.
“I think it’s a cool country. I really like the warm welcome from everyone and from the AIK family. It feels like many people in Sweden keep to themselves a bit and are very honest and kind,” he noted.
Wilson on adaptation
Winter in Sweden, however, has been a surprising challenge for Wilson. “It’s one of the craziest things I’ve experienced,” he said, laughing.
“Very, very cold. I had never seen or touched snow before in my entire life. It was… I couldn’t believe I was training, with snow next to me! When we prepared for training, I used to wear pants, gloves, and protection for my neck.”
