By Zim Sport Live Writer
“It’s a proud moment for me and my family.”
Those were the first words from Zimbabwe-eligible defender Tino Goremusandu after signing his first professional contract with Championship side Blackburn Rovers following his departure from Southampton.
The 18-year-old full-back has agreed a two-year deal at Ewood Park, with the club holding the option to extend it by a further 12 months, after impressing during a trial with Blackburn’s Under-21 side towards the end of last season.
“I came on trial here towards the end of last season and did well, so I’m grateful to sign a professional contract here,” Goremusandu told RoversTV.
“I enjoyed the setup here when I first came and I wanted to make a statement. It’s a step in the right direction and I want to kick on now.”
The left-sided defender, who is eligible to represent Zimbabwe at international level, featured for Blackburn’s Under-21s in the Premier League Cup semi-finals during his trial spell and has now earned the opportunity to continue his development with the Lancashire club.
Goremusandu said Blackburn’s reputation for developing young players made the move an easy decision.
“When Rovers said they wanted me on trial, it was a no-brainer when you look at the setup and the pathway towards the first team,” he said.
“This season, I want to kick on with the Under-21s and get as many minutes as I can, get goals and assists.
“The ultimate goal is to train with the first team if I impress with the Under-21s.”
The move marks another significant milestone in Goremusandu’s rapid rise through English football.
“It’s something I have been working towards since I was little,” he said.
“It feels very special. Three years ago, I was playing Sunday league, so to get a professional contract is a massive achievement.
“I wanted to come here because they offer opportunities to young players. It was a no-brainer for me.”
Blackburn have increasingly built a reputation for giving academy graduates a pathway into senior football, making the club an attractive destination for emerging talent seeking first-team opportunities.
For Goremusandu, securing his first professional contract is the latest step in what he hopes will be a journey towards Championship—and ultimately first-team—football, while remaining another promising young player eligible to represent Zimbabwe on the international stage.