Bali Mumba opens up on 'very tough' decision to leave and posts classy farewell message to Sunderland

Norwich City confirmed on Monday that the 18-year-old will be part of their senior squad next season, as he bids to impress in the full-back position.

It ends an 11-year-association with the Black Cats for Mumba, who took to social media to post an emotional thanks to all those who were part of his journey on Wearside.

“I would like to start by saying a massive thank you to everyone at Sunderland AFC,” he said.

"The coaches, the staff, the players and all the supporters who have helped me throughout my journey at Sunderland. Here I have been able to grow and learn to become the player I am today.

Read our in-depth look at Bali Mumba’s departure as part of our academy spotlight series

“Sunderland AFC has been my club for the past 11 years and I can proudly say that I have loved every single moment and I have created many good memories which will stay with me forever.

“I am truly grateful for every opportunity which has been given to me and the people in which I have met along the way.

“Finally I would like to wish everyone associated with SAFC all the best going forward. Even though I'm leaving the club, there will always be a piece of it with me.”

Read Part One of our series, focusing on two years of player departures and how they happened

Speaking to Norwich City’s official website, he said that it was ‘very tough’ to leave Sunderland but that the club’s record of improving young players was key.

“Yeah, it was very tough,” he said.

"My family live around there but, looking at Norwich and the way they bring up young players, it was quite an easy decision to come here and get going.

“The history of the club is very good, as well as the way it’s run and the way it produces young players is very good for such a young player like me, to get in that pathway and hopefully be promoted to the first-team and look to start my career.”