Garang Kuol has secured a move to Czech club Sparta Prague in a bid to reignite his career ahead of the 2024 World Cup. The 20-year-old winger has signed a “long-term” deal with the Czech First League powerhouse after facing challenges during his two years in the Premier League. Kuol’s journey includes a stint with Newcastle United, where he joined following the 2022 World Cup but struggled for playing time.
After moving to Newcastle in 2023, Kuol found it difficult to establish himself in the first team. He was subsequently loaned to Scottish side Hearts, where he aimed to gain valuable experience but faced limited opportunities. His next chapter saw him join Dutch club Volendam, which was relegated to the second division in 2024, further complicating his development.
New Beginnings in Prague
Kuol’s transfer to Sparta Prague marks a significant turning point. He will reunite with former Newcastle U21 coach Diarmuid O’Carroll, who took up an assistant role at the Czech club earlier in June. Kuol made an impact during his time with Newcastle’s reserve team, scoring five goals and providing four assists in just 11 matches during the Premier League 2 season.
Sparta Prague’s interim sporting director Tomas Sivok expressed optimism about Kuol’s potential. “Garang is a talented winger who, despite his age, already brings plenty of experience,” Sivok stated in an official club announcement. He highlighted Kuol’s impressive pace, ability to play on both flanks, and his boldness in one-on-one scenarios. Sivok emphasized the need for patience, noting, “We see great potential for growth in him. At the same time, it’s important that he is given enough time to adapt.”
World Cup Aspirations
With less than a year remaining until the 2024 World Cup in June, Kuol’s move to Sparta Prague could pave the way for a return to the Australian national team, the Socceroos. The young winger has not featured for Australia since his fifth cap in 2023. Socceroos coach Tony Popovic recently extended a call-up to another emerging talent, Mohammed Irankunda, for upcoming friendlies against New Zealand. Irankunda’s recent transfer to the English Championship side Watford highlights the growing opportunities for young Australian players abroad.
As Kuol embarks on this new chapter in Prague, the football community will be watching closely to see if he can regain his form and secure a spot on the national team ahead of the global tournament.
