Bjorn Marwa – 17 Years Old – Wolverhampton Wanderers

From being scouted at a UK Football Trials camp to signing for Chelsea’s academy and now continuing his journey with Wolverhampton Wanderers, 17-year-old Bjorn Marwa has built a story defined by talent, persistence, and belief. His path reflects the true spirit of a modern footballer — one who embraces setbacks, stays focused, and continues to rise through hard work.

Bjorn’s football story started at home, inspired by his father. “My dad always played football. So I think growing up, I just watched him play, and naturally, I wanted to be like my dad,” he explained. His early years were spent overseas — first in Qatar, then Dubai — where he joined Arsenal Dubai, coached by his father. “I was in Qatar when I was six till I was seven, and then I was in Dubai from seven to 11. I came back to England for secondary school when I was 11,” he recalled. Those years abroad shaped his style. “I became quite technical and intelligent on the ball,” he said.

After returning to England, Bjorn’s parents came across UK Football Trials online, and the opportunity immediately stood out. He attended both one-day and week-long camps, each one helping him grow in confidence and exposure. “I went to a couple of the one-day trials. I think I got quite a few clubs come back to me,” he said.

The five-day camp proved life-changing. “The scout that actually scouted me for Chelsea was on site the whole week,” Bjorn shared. The camp’s structure — from gym work and psychology sessions to intense technical drills — gave him the environment to perform at his best. His performances caught the eye of Chelsea, and before long, he was invited to join their academy setup.

His two years at Chelsea were a dream realised. “It was a great experience,” he said. “Just originally going there and seeing the training ground facilities, and the standard of play.” Bjorn trained at Cobham, surrounded by elite players and coaches, developing his game every day. “The facilities were top level. All the boys were nice, the coaching was really high, and it was so professional.”

After two years, Bjorn was released from Chelsea — a tough moment for any young player — but he refused to let it define him. “I created a highlight reel and sent it to multiple clubs. Watford and Wolves got back, so I went on a trial for Wolves,” he explained. Following strong performances in both trials, he joined Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he now trains full-time.

“Full-time football, isn’t it? So nice,” he said with a smile. “We get fed breakfast there, lunch there. Our kit is washed there. We don’t have to take nothing home — I’m living every football dream right now.”

Currently recovering from a dislocated kneecap, Bjorn remains motivated and grateful for his progress. His goals are clear: “To get my pro and return to the Norwegian national team.” He has already represented Norway at youth level, describing it as “a really great experience,” despite the challenge of not speaking the language.

Outside football, Bjorn has also explored acting — appearing in two seasons of the BBC’s “Jamie Johnson FC”. “It was totally different,” he said. “Hair and makeup, learning lines every night — but I loved it.”

Reflecting on his football journey, he remains proud of his roots. “Getting that opportunity to play at one of the best clubs in the world, it’s just amazing… something that will stick with me for the rest of my life.”

His message for young players is simple and powerful: “Be confident. Be yourself. Show everything you’ve got. Scouts are not looking for what they already have — they’re looking for something different.”

From Dubai to Chelsea, and now Wolves, Bjorn Marwa’s journey shows what’s possible when hard work meets opportunity. UK Football Trials gave him the platform to be seen — and his determination has carried him the rest of the way.