Sunderland appear to have made a smart investment in a key star, with journalist Darius Tshibangu revealing why the young midfielder has attracted attention following his impressive rise with DR Congo’s Under-23 side.
The 20-year-old joined the Black Cats from Royal Antwerp in a permanent deal on August 24, having spent less than a year developing his career in Belgian football.
He began his journey at Congolese club AC Normands before moving to Antwerp in September 2025. He initially featured for the Belgian side’s reserves before earning promotion to the senior team in May.
Although he made two first-team appearances towards the end of last season as a center-back, new Antwerp manager Marvin Compper deployed him in his preferred defensive midfield position at the beginning of the current campaign.
The youngster immediately made an impression, playing every minute of Antwerp’s opening two league matches. He also registered an assist for Michael Frey’s opening goal in a 2-1 victory over SK Beveren before featuring in a 3-0 win against KV Kortrijk.
Royal Antwerp manager disappointed by Sunderland transfer
Ahoka’s early performances convinced Sunderland to secure his services, but his departure reportedly left Compper disappointed.
The Antwerp manager had recognized the midfielder’s potential to become an important member of his squad, suggesting that the youngster was developing rapidly.
“He is growing every day. Physically he is very strong, but he is also getting better and better on the pitch. He can become more than just a substitute; he can even become a key player,” Compper said.
Sunderland subsequently completed the deal, reportedly worth around €10 million, as they continued strengthening their squad for the 2026/27 campaign.
Ahoka has already made his debut for the Black Cats, featuring in their 1-0 EFL Cup victory over Hull City. However, manager Régis Le Bris has yet to hand him a starting opportunity in the Premier League or Europa League.
Journalist reveals why Sunderland signed Ahoka
Despite his limited involvement at Sunderland so far, the midfielder’s international performances suggest that he possesses the qualities needed to make an impact in English football.
Leopard Foot journalist Darius Tshibangu has been analyzing Ahoka’s development with DR Congo’s Under-23 team, with Foot RDC relaying his assessment of the youngster’s progress.
Tshibangu believes the Sunderland signing is already making a strong case for promotion to the senior national team, highlighting his technical ability, work rate, and influence in midfield.
“He is the boss of Guy Bukasa’s midfield. With his technical ability, his capacity to dictate play, and his work rate, Ahoka confirms that he has the qualities to have a great career,” the journalist said.
He added: “Among the U23s, Ahoka is certainly one of those knocking most loudly on the door of the senior national team.”
Tshibangu also pointed to Ahoka’s rapid progress in Europe, explaining that his performances in Belgium had been enough to persuade Sunderland to invest heavily in his potential.
“His rise since arriving in Europe is particularly impressive. Two league appearances with Antwerp this season were enough to convince Sunderland to invest €10m,” he stated.
Sunderland could have an exciting prospect on their hands
The comments from Tshibangu and Compper provide further encouragement that Sunderland have identified a midfielder with significant long-term potential.
Ahoka’s ability to dictate play, contribute defensively, and operate in different positions could eventually make him a valuable option for Le Bris.
However, the youngster still has work to do to establish himself at the Stadium of Light. His limited involvement in the Premier League and Europa League means that regular first-team football is not yet guaranteed.
For now, Sunderland will hope that the midfielder continues developing and adapts quickly to the demands of English football.
If Ahoka can translate his impressive performances for DR Congo’s Under-23s into consistent displays at the club level, the Black Cats could eventually reap the rewards of their investment.
