Miguel Bilong shines in Palmeiras intra-squad friendly, 18-year-old forward scores twice | OneFootball

Miguel Bilong impressed in Palmeiras’ intra-squad friendly on Wednesday morning, scoring two of the white side’s three goals as they won at the club’s Academy. It was the 18-year-old Cameroonian’s first run-out with the senior group.

According to Globo.com, the 1.78m forward has been on trial since March, earned approval and has agreed a deal with Palmeiras, but registration can only be finalised when the international window opens on 20 July.

He noted he is still adapting to the first team and the language, which he finds challenging, but expects to settle with time and expressed his affection for the club. He is taking Portuguese lessons, with French his main language at the Academy.

Bilong featured in youth friendlies, including the under-20 Copa Ibrachina, where coach Allan Barcellos was impressed by his blend of physical presence and accurate finishing.

Palmeiras plan to develop the striker in the academy before considering a senior step. With the backing of João Paulo Sampaio and Vítor Castanheira, Abel Ferreira has given the move the green light.

He is expected to play in the next training game against Juventus this weekend at the Academy. His arrival forms part of Palmeiras’ African recruitment work, which also brought in Ivorian defender Koné to the first-team support group.

Source: Globo.com