Saïmon Bouabre is quickly making his mark on the international stage and on Neom SC’s ambitious project in Saudi Arabia.
The 19-year-old forward, who swapped Monaco for Neom in a €10 million ($11m) deal last summer, delivered a stunning performance for France U20s on Sunday night, scoring both goals in a 2-1 victory over Norway to seal a place in the World Cup semifinals.
It's the first time since 2013 - when Paul Pogba led Les Bleuets to glory - that France have reached this stage of the competition.
Bouabre struck twice before half-time in Santiago, showing the kind of technical flair and decisive finishing that convinced Christophe Galtier and Neom to make him one of the flagbearers of their long-term project.
His double against Norway means France will face Morocco on Wednesday night, with a chance to move within touching distance of the trophy.
Born in Saint-Etienne, Bouabre progressed through ASSE, Andrezieux-Boutheon, and SC Air Bel before being recruited by AS Monaco in 2021.
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He won the Coupe Gambardella in 2023 and signed his first professional contract two years later, making his Ligue 1 debut against Nantes in January 2025.
Despite limited senior minutes in France, his potential was evident and Neom SC moved quickly, securing his signature in July in a transfer that surprised many across Europe.
At the Saudi Pro League club, he's learning alongside seasoned professionals such as Alexandre Lacazette and new wave French talents, with Galtier building an environment aimed at producing not just domestic success but also international recognition.
Explosive with his first steps, capable of operating across the frontline, and with a knack for goals in decisive moments, Bouabre is shaping up as one of France's brightest prospects.
For Neom, his success in Chile is further validation of their recruitment model: attracting elite European talent early and giving them a platform to shine. France now prepare for Morocco in the semifinals, with Bouabre at the heart of their hopes.
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