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At the young age of just 12, OMARI HUTCHINSON burst onto the internet scene — yet it is only now that he has stepped onto the stage he has always aspired to reach.
Hutchinson, who is now 21, has been riding high on excitement after scoring his first-ever Premier League goal during Ipswich’s 1-1 draw with Manchester United last week.
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Next in line for Hutchinson is a challenge against Nottingham Forest, as the Tractor Boys look to prove they can compete with the top teams in the league.
He understands this ambition well, especially as his incredible abilities captured the attention of Pele during his younger years.
Despite being released twice by Chelsea and only making two first-team appearances, he eventually signed with Ipswich for a record £22.5 million last summer.
Before that, he had a spell at Arsenal, which gained him notoriety, albeit not for his on-field play.
He also faced challenges at trials with teams like Tottenham and Brentford.
Additionally, his early career saw him spend time at Charlton, who first noticed him while he was playing in their parking lot.
Hutchinson’s road to success has not followed the textbook path, although his talent is evident.
A partnership with F2 Freestylers at age 12 allowed more than four million viewers to see his skills on full display.
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Reflecting on his journey, he stated: “There have been many ups and downs.
“I became popular at a young age, but I wasn’t actively playing much football during that time.
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“At Arsenal, I wasn’t always part of the starting squad, which is something you desire at that age.
“I would frequently practice with my dad after games and put in extra effort.”
Nonetheless, throughout his journey, one thing remained unchanged: his resolve to chase his dream.
Hutchinson admitted: “Absolutely. Young players need that self-belief and confidence to think they can achieve greatness, whether in the league or on a global scale. That has always been my mindset.
“I’ve trained with the first teams at two of the world’s premier clubs.”.
“I’ve absorbed wisdom from many experienced players who advised me, saying, ‘You’re incredibly skilled, focus on this and that, and you’ll find success.’
“They warned me to steer clear of distractions, and I paid heed. I’ve carved my own path and displayed my talent.”
Although Hutchinson may not have interacted directly with Pele, the football legend from the 1960s, he still shares an indirect connection with him.
The three-time World Cup champion — who passed away in December 2022 — watched Hutchinson’s talents during a visit to London and showed his appreciation.
Hutchinson recalled: “It was at a Brentford tournament when I was playing for Arsenal’s Under-12 team.
“He was there at the end, and we performed our freestyle routines.
“All teams created a circle, and a representative from each had to display their skills — I was urged to join in!
“He watched and enjoyed my act. After that, we took a photo together, and he even invited me to rest beside him.”
I realized that winning the lottery is more achievable than becoming a professional footballer in the Premier League.
Omari Hutchinson
“I was doing kick-ups and showcasing my skills.
“My grandmother often said, ‘You’ll be like Pele when you grow up.’ She provided me with numerous books and cards to motivate me.”
It wasn’t unexpected when Hutchinson agreed to join Ipswich upon their return to the top tier after a 22-year hiatus, even with other options available.
The attacking midfielder, who can also function as a winger or central attacking midfielder, played a pivotal role in their promotion while on loan from Chelsea last season.
Tractor Boys manager Kieran McKenna guaranteed Hutchinson the playing time he sought.
Hutchinson shared: “My discussion with Kieran this summer confirmed my decision to come here.
“I understood I could seize the chance to play in the Premier League, which is quite a rare opportunity.
“I believe winning the lottery is more manageable than becoming a professional footballer in the Premier League.”
Hutchinson now faces a significant decision — whether to represent England, where he’s been playing in the Under-21s, or Jamaica, for which he has participated in a few friendlies due to his father’s heritage.
No player from Ipswich has donned the England shirt at the senior level since Richard Wright in 2001, with only 12 players achieving that feat overall.
This could change soon, but Hutchinson stated: “I have lofty aspirations, but that isn’t my primary concern currently.”
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