Sainey Nyassi


Sainey Nyassi is a Gambian professional footballer who most recently played for FC Edmonton in the NASL.

Professional career

Sainey Nyassi began his career in the Gambia, playing in the GFA League First Division for Gambia Ports Authority.
Nyassi was scouted by New England Revolution head coach Steve Nicol while playing in the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup, and signed with the Revolution shortly thereafter along with his Gambian teammate, Kenny Mansally. He made his MLS debut on September 9, 2007 against D.C. United as a substitute, playing the final eight minutes on the right wing. He made his first start and scored his first MLS goal on March 29, 2008 in the Revs' 3-0 opening day victory over Houston Dynamo. Nyassi was released by New England on May 16, 2013.
On May 27, 2013, Nyassi signed with D.C. United.
On June 9, 2014, Nyassi signed for Finnish Club RoPS.
Nyassi signed with FC Edmonton in February 2015. He spent three seasons in Edmonton. After the 2017 season, with the future of FC Edmonton and the NASL in doubt, Nyassi was released by the club.

International career

Nyassi has represented his nation at various youth levels. He played for the Gambian U-17 national team in the 2005 U-17 world championships, and for the U-20 national team in the 2007 U-20 FIFA Championships. He scored his first goal for the Senior national team on September 4, 2010 in the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations qualification match against Namibia.

International goals

#DateVenueOpponentScoreResultCompetition
1January 9, 2010Stade El Menzah, Tunis
2–0
2–1
Friendly
2September 4, 2010Independence Stadium, Bakau
1–0
3–1
2012 Africa Cup of Nations qualification

Personal life

Sainey is the twin brother of fellow professional footballer Sanna Nyassi.
Nyassi received his U.S green card on January 31, 2012, which qualified him as a domestic player for MLS roster purposes.