Ghana international Christopher Bonsu Baah has revealed he shared the pitch with some of Europe’s brightest emerging talents during his formative years on trial.

The Genk winger said he featured alongside Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo at the U16 level and later trained with Marc Casado and Fermín López at Barcelona’s U19s – both of whom are now part of the Spanish giants’ first team.

Baah boasts an impressive trial résumé, having had stints with several elite youth setups across Europe.

“I first trialled at Sheffield United, then Man United’s U16s. I played with Kobbie Mainoo and the likes,” he told Joy Sports. “I also had trials with First Vienna, Dortmund and Midjylland.

“I also trained with the Barcelona U19 team. I played with the likes of Casado, Fermín López, and Ilias Akhomach.”

Though failing to secure a contract from those clubs, Baah admitted the journey was not without its challenges. He said he managed to remain mentally strong through the disappointment.

“I think it's difficult. You are training with them and not getting the contract, I think it's quite difficult for you because if you don't take time or if you don't take care, you'll be frustrated because you want it early,” he added.

“But at the same time, when you are patient at the right time, it's good for you to get the contract. And because you don't know what God is preparing for you, you just have to be patient and pray to God for the right moment to come.”

Watch the full interview below:

Baah eventually made a breakthrough when he joined Norwegian top-flight side Sarpsborg from Ghanaian third-tier club Shooting Stars in March 2023.

After only 12 appearances, Belgian Pro League side Genk swooped for his signature, fending off competition from top European clubs.

He has since emerged as one of Ghana’s most promising young talents, recently earning his first senior caps in friendlies against Nigeria and Trinidad and Tobago.