Peniel Mlapa

“My journey has taken me across different countries, leagues, and cultures, but what has remained constant is my love for football and the lessons it has taught me about life. I know what it’s like to have big dreams and to work tirelessly toward them, no matter the obstacles. My career has been filled with ups and downs, but each moment has shaped me into the person and player I am today.

To every young player, I want to say this: never stop believing in yourself. Your dreams are within reach if you have the courage to chase them. I’m here to guide you, to help you learn not just the game but the mindset it takes to succeed. Football is more than a sport—it’s a way to grow, learn, and become the best version of yourself.”

INTRODUCTION

Peniel, born 20.February 1991 in Lome, Togo, was 2 years old when his parents decided to move to Germany looking for a better future for Peniel and his older brother. He began his youth career with FC Unterföhring, but moved to TSV 1860 Munich in 1999, where his professional path started as one of the most promising talents of Germany. He was also rewarded with the German Young Player of the Year award in 2011.

As a professional football player, known for his skills as a forward, Peniel Mlapa has played for various clubs in the German Bundesliga, before he gained more experience in several other first division Clubs worldwide. Not only has he been recognized for his speed and agility on the field, but he also has been a valuable member of any team that he played for, with his love for the game, bringing fun and professionality to his teammates. Peniels size and strength are his main attributes on the field, accompanied by his outstanding mentality that is determined and grounded, making him the perfect team leader. 

Mlapa has also represented the German youth national team, and later joined the Togo national team, contributing to their efforts in international competitions. His career highlights include notable performances in international league matches and tournaments, making him a significant figure in the world of football. Its safe to say that Mlapa has seen all sides of soccer. The Ups and Downs, The Highs and Lows but has never lost his love for the game.

Peniel envisions to shape physically and mentally strong players that will overcome their own doubts and fears and support every individual player to become the elite of tomorrows soccer world.

Career Overview

Clubs Played For:

• TSV 1860 Munich (Germany)
  • Youth Team: Until 2009
  • First Team: 2009–2010
  • Played in the 2. Bundesliga, where he showcased his skills as a young and upcoming striker, catching the attention of top-tier clubs.
• TSG 1899 Hoffenheim (Germany)
  • Years: 2010–2012
  • Mlapa transitioned to the Bundesliga with Hoffenheim, marking his entry into Germany’s top football league.
• Borussia Mönchengladbach (Germany)
  • Years: 2012–2015
  • Played in the UEFA Europa League for Mönchengladbach, gaining valuable European competition experience.
• 1. FC Nürnberg (Germany) (Loan)
  • Years: 2014–2015
  • Spent a season on loan at Nürnberg, where he helped stabilize the team in the 2. Bundesliga.
• VfL Bochum (Germany)
  • Years: 2015–2017
  • Established himself as a key player at Bochum, contributing significantly to their campaigns in the 2. Bundesliga.
• Dynamo Dresden (Germany)
  • Years: 2017–2018
  • Made 
• VVV-Venlo (Netherlands)
  • Years: 2018–2019
  • Scored many goals in the Eredivisie and helped Venlo to successfully finish one of their best seasons ever.
• Ittihad Kalba (UAE)
  • Years: 2019–2023
  • Made an impact in the UAE Pro League, quickly becoming one of the top-performing forwards.
• Al Nasr SC (UAE)
  • Years: 2023–2023
  • Continued his strong performances in the UAE, building his reputation as a formidable forward in the region.
• Daejeon Hana (South Korea)
  • Years: 2023–2024
  • Ventured to South Korea, bringing his wealth of experience to Daejeon in the K League 1.
• Busan IPark (South Korea)
  • Years: 2024–2025
  • Continued his international experience in the Korean K League 2 for one of the biggest teams in Korea.

International Career:

• Germany Youth Teams (U19, U21)
  • Peniel represented Germany at youth levels, including appearances for the U19 and U21 teams.
• Togo National Team
  • Years: 2017–Present

After switching national allegiances, Mlapa began representing Togo on the international stage, contributing to their Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Achievements:

• UEFA Europa League Competitor
  • Played for Borussia Mönchengladbach in the 2012–2013 Europa League campaign 
• Germany Youth International
  • Represented Germany at the U19 and U21 levels, showcasing his talents at prestigious youth competitions.
• Key Player in UAE Pro League
  • Established a solid reputation in the UAE, becoming a key forward for Al Nasr SC and Ittihad Kalba during his time in the Middle East.
• Togo National Team
  • Played a pivotal role in Togo’s national team since 2017, contributing to various qualifiers and international tournaments.