As Yaya Toure prepares to lead his ŠK Slovan Bratislava team against VfB Stuttgart in the Champions League, a contrasting scene unfolds in the ninth tier of English football where Rossington Main boss Ben Hunter reflects on his team's recent match.

The connection between these two coaches lies in one remarkable player: Manasse Kianga. Just three years ago, Kianga was playing Sunday league football in Rotherham, helping Doncaster outfit Main achieve promotion in 2023. Now, at 24, he has propelled the Slovakian champions into Europe’s premier competition after being promoted from the reserves due to an injury crisis.

Kianga could make his Champions League debut soon, having emerged from the bench to score an injury-time winner in the qualifying rounds. Although he missed out on the matchday squad for the opening game against Paris St-Germain, he registered two goals and two assists in the domestic league.

Hunter recalls Kianga as a standout talent with electric pace, noting, "He came to trial with Rossington and I had a look at him and straight away loved him."

Despite being described as "very raw" during his early days in South Yorkshire, Kianga's potential was evident. His move to Rossington was influenced by his brother, Bobby, who had a brief stint with the club. While studying business and accounting at Thomas Rotherham College, Kianga was recognized as a "popular and outstanding student and football player."

His journey reflects perseverance, having been overlooked by several professional clubs. Chris Walls, the college's assistant principal, remembers him as a dominant player in their football academy, and they take pride in his achievements, showcasing the success of their program at such a small institution.