At 11, while with Coventry City, Monga took part in tailored one-on-one training through a programme that has worked with players from academies across the country, including those who have gone on to the Premier League.
Callum Powell of CP Coaching Academy told BBC Sport that Jeremy was initially quite reserved but carried himself the right way—polite, well-mannered, and bringing positive energy without being loud or brash. He added that Jeremy puts his head down and works hard, and when he’s on the ball he’s willing to express himself.
Asked which qualities stood out at that age, Powell highlighted Monga’s ball manipulation and dribbling, as well as his sharp reactions to beat opponents. He said Jeremy’s footwork, agility and technique are ahead of most of his peers, which explains the interest around him, and noted his rare ability to shift direction at high speed.
Powell, who also plays in the lower tiers of English football, compared Monga’s mentality to that of an England striker at the World Cup—specifically Ivan Toney, with whom he came through the ranks at Northampton. Powell said that while Toney’s technical ability was evident, few could have predicted his career trajectory. He believes Jeremy shares that standout mindset: he isn’t fazed by pressure; he thrives on it.
From Powell’s experience with professionals and elite youngsters, mentality is the key differentiator, and Jeremy has it in spades. It’s up to him to deliver performances and put in the work, but Powell is confident he’ll achieve great things and calls the move an outstanding step for him.