Lil Wayne kicks off 2026 in a major power move by signing European footballer Amadou Onana to his Young Money Sports Agency.
The Aston Villa midfielder has signed a deal with the entertainment giant to manage the commercial use of his name, image and likeness, including sponsorships and brand partnerships.
The agreement lays the foundation for Onana’s global expansion, particularly in the U.S. market where the cross-cutting appeal between sports, music and fashion continues to grow rapidly.
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Young Money Sports Agency, officially known as Young Money APAA Sports, was founded in 2017 when Lil Wayne partnered with the von Gontard family’s APAA Sports.
The agency represents more than 80 athletes across multiple sports, including football, basketball, boxing and softball. The 24-year-old Belgium international brings important credentials to Young Money’s squad.
Born in Dakar, Senegal, Onana has enjoyed a remarkable career since making his professional debut with Hamburger SV in 2020.
He made his debut in the German Cup against Dynamo Dresden, announcing his arrival with a dramatic header in the 89th minute. His performances earned him a move to Ligue 1 champions Lille in 2021, with Everton paying more than $40 million for Onana in August 2022, where he established himself as a Premier League regular over two seasons.
Aston Villa signed Onana for $65 million in July 2024, making him one of the most expensive defensive midfielders in Premier League history.
Onana’s international career with Belgium has been equally impressive, taking part in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and the 2024 European Championship in Germany, playing every minute of Belgium’s four European Championships.
Young Money’s recent signings demonstrate their growing influence in professional sports.
The agency made headlines in December 2024 when it targeted Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter before he declared for the NFL Draft. Hunter’s four-year, $46.65 million contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars was negotiated by Young Money agents Adie von Gontard and Ray Haija.
Onana’s signing comes at a critical time for U.S. Soccer’s expansion
As the 2026 World Cup approaches and Major League Soccer continues to grow, European stars are increasingly looking to establish their brands in the U.S. market.
The deal separates Onana’s commercial representation from his football representation, allowing Young Money to focus on brand partnerships, sponsorship and marketing opportunities, while his playing contracts remain handled by traditional football agents.
Outside of football, Onana demonstrates his entrepreneurial spirit by releasing rap music under the name 24 AM. His debut single “Check On Me” was released in August 2024.
