Emmanuel Ekong

Emmanuel Ekong (born 25 June 2002) is a professional footballer who plays as a forward for Croatian club Istra 1961 on loan from the Italian club club Empoli. Born in Italy to Nigerian parents, he is a Sweden youth international.

Club career
As a youth player, Ekong joined the youth academy of Swedish seventh tier side Bollstanäs SK. in 2015, he joined the youth academy of IF Brommapojkarna in the Swedish second tier.

In 2018, he joined the youth academy of Italian Serie A club Empoli. On 5 September 2022, Ekong debuted for Empoli during a 2–2 draw with Salernitana.

In January 2023, Ekong signed for Serie B club Perugia on loan until the end of the season.

On 8 September 2023, Ekong joined Istra 1961 in Croatia on loan with an option to buy.

International career
Born in Italy to Nigerian parents and raised in Sweden, Ekong is eligible to represent Nigeria, Italy and Sweden. He has represented the Sweden U19 team five times, scoring one goal.

Personal life
Ekong is the son of Nigeria international Prince Ikpe Ekong.