MANILA – Kaya Futbol Club-Iloilo infused youth to its roster with the signing of Filipino-Finnish Oskari Johannes Orevillo Kekkonen ahead of its football campaigns for this year.
In an announcement on Tuesday night, the Iloilo City-based football club welcomed the 22-year-old former Finnish Youth International player who had stints with the Azkals Developmental Team in the Philippines Football League.
“Oskari was a player brought to our attention in 2020. We were very intrigued, but of course the challenges of the pandemic made it challenging for us to seal the acquisition,” said Kaya president and GM Paul Tolentino.
“Playing against him in 2021 proved that he was indeed a player that fits our playing style and club culture. We are very excited to finally have him in our team for the 2022 season,” he added.
Kekkonen started his professional career as a 17-year-old for Finnish club Kotkan Työväen Palloilijat, before going on to gain valuable experience playing for several teams at various levels.
The 22-year-old booter was also a member of Finland’s U-18 squad — before switching his allegiance to his mother’s home country after interest in him starting growing in the Philippines.
Kekkonen made his Philippines U-23 Team debut in the 2022 AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qualifiers last October, followed by his Senior Team debut in the AFF Suzuki Cup last December.
“First of all I want to thank the management, especially Paul Tolentino, and the coach Yu Hoshide, for trusting me and giving me the opportunity to represent Kaya FC-Iloilo,” Oskari said. “I feel truly honored for this opportunity and can’t wait to get started!”
“I have high expectations joining the club as I have only heard good and positive things from former and present players,” he added. “I am expecting us to give our best and to compete to win every competition we will take part in.”
“I will bring with me great energy with my youth and also the hunger to compete and win everything in our hands. The fans can expect me to give my 100% for this club on and off the field!” Kekkonen concluded./PN
