Ex-Lazio youth player once accused of being 41 secures move to country's biggest club

Former Lazio youth player Joseph Minala - who was once subject of an investigation into his age - has secured a move to Maltese giants Sliema Wanderers FC.

The Cameroon midfielder, 26, joined Lazio in the summer of 2013 and progressed through their academy system.

In early 2014, however, a report from a Senegalese media outlet claimed that Minala was 41 years of age - 24 years older than his age at the time. The claims were rejected by both Minala and Lazio.

The Italian FA then conducted an investigation into the claims. They found that Minala's given age was correct, and no disciplinary action was taken.

In 2020, Minala finally addressed the saga, and believed that it had prevented him from being able to sign for some clubs.

He told AFP: "It held back my career and is [still] holding back my career.

"I had opportunities at some clubs, but I think it didn't happen because of this business. I had the opportunity to go to France, I had the opportunity to go to Paris Saint-Germain at the time... but it didn't happen.

"Sometimes people prefer to ignore that I'm a good player and only point out that aspect of me."

After leaving Lazio on a permanent basis in 2021, following several loan spells, the midfielder spent time at Serie C sides Lucchese and Olbia.

Earlier this year, he left Italy to join Latvian side FK Liepaja - but has now moved on to another club and country.

Joseph Minala joins Maltese side

Minala has now joined his second club of 2023 by joining Sliema Wanderers - Malta's most successful team.

They suffered relegation in the 2021/22 season, but bounced straight back to Malta's top flight by winning the Maltese Challenge League last term.

Announcing the signing of Minala on their official Facebook page, Sliema Wanderers said: "Having already played for some top-level clubs throughout his career including Lazio, Bari and Salernitana, Joseph will surely bring a wealth of talent and experience to our squad.

"His exceptional defensive skills, tactical awareness, and versatility on the field will make him a very valuable addition to our midfield department."

The club have won 26 league titles throughout their history, although their most recent success was in the 2004/05 campaign. With Minala and a number of other new signings in their ranks, they will hope to challenge again this season.