Lebanese star player Elie Joe Saade has signed a professional contract with Levante the La Liga outfit confirmed over the weekend.
The 18-year-old striker joins the Valencia-based club after honing his craft for more than a decade since joining Beirut Football Academy at the age of six.
“I’ve always said that with hard work and a little bit of luck you can achieve any goal,” Saade said at the official announcement of the move.
“This is only the start for me and I hope to raise the profile of Lebanese football just as others have before me.
“Another ambition of mine is to represent my country which would mean a lot to me.”
Saade said he hopes the move will inspire other local youngsters who dream of a football career abroad.
“My advice to those who [want] to pursue a career at the highest level is to dedicate their lives to this sport just as I did,” he said.
Saade joins the likes of players Roda Antar, Youssef Mohammad and Hilal al-Helwe in making the step to the top continental level of the game.
Levante are currently 17th in La Liga and look to have ensured top-flight survival for at least another season.
