Football was a Family Affair: Cameron Archer Humble Beginnings

Cameron Archer’s football journey has a unique and charming beginning—he started in a barn. After school, young Cameron would head there, where his father, Richard Archer, would coach him. Richard, a passionate football enthusiast, had a clear vision for his sons. He wanted all four of them to become strikers or centre forwards, not wingers, midfielders, or defenders. Remarkably, Cameron and his siblings fulfilled their father’s dream, becoming the forwards he always envisioned.

Indeed, among the many football stories featuring proud parents or siblings supporting sporting success, Cameron Archer’s story stands out as particularly special. It’s a surprise package, as Cameron Archer’s entire career has been deeply influenced by his family’s involvement. In fact, football has always been an Archer family affair, making his journey even more remarkable.

This article goes beyond detailing Cameron Archer’s football highlights or goals scored. It delves into the significant moments of his childhood, exploring when he first fell in love with football. You’ll be introduced to his parents, Veronie and Richard Archer, his family background, siblings (Aaron, Jordan, and Lewis), his uncle Andy McFarlane, and his nephew Morgan. The article also touches on his love life, family origins, and more.

Preamble:

Cameron Archer’s biography begins by delving into the formative moments of his early years and childhood. We then trace his journey through Aston Villa’s academy, highlighting his growth as a promising young footballer. Finally, we explore how this talent from Walsall capitalized on his loan spells, ultimately catapulting him to prominence with Sheffield United.

We aim to captivate you with Cameron Archer’s compelling life story through this biography. To kick things off, let’s unveil a captivating photo gallery that chronicles Archer’s evolution. From his early days in Walsall, sporting his distinctive afro hair, to his rise to stardom, Archer’s journey is a testament to determination and achievement in the world of football.

Yes, everyone knows Archer is a thrilling young prospect in football. When you first saw him play, we bet you were instantly impressed by his skill, prowess and array of finishes. This guy has a remarkable knack for finding the net, even from the most improbable angles.

In our ongoing quest to share the life stories of English footballers, we’ve discovered some untold tales. It’s a little-known fact that Cameron Archer’s Biography is incredibly captivating yet not widely known among football enthusiasts. Driven by our passion for the sport, we’ve put together an in-depth article on the History of Archer. So, without further delay, let’s dive in.

Cameron Archer Childhood Story:

For Biography starters, he bears the nickname – ‘Cam’ and the ‘new Defoe’. His Full name is Cameron Desmond Archer. The Sharp Shooter was born on the 9th day of December 2001 to his Mother, Veronie Archer and Father, Richard Archer, in Walsall, United Kingdom.

He arrived in the world as one among four children (all brothers) born to the blissful marital union between his Veronie and Richard. Now, let’s introduce you to Cameron Archer’s Parents. Veronie and Richard have been instrumental as a guiding force, playing a pivotal role in their son’s footballing journey and success.

Growing-Up Years:

Cameron Archer is the last-born child of his family. He, who has no sister(s), grew up alongside his three brothers, Aaron, Jordan, and Lewis. All children, born to Richard and Veronie (who is a nurse), spent their childhood years in Walsall, a market town in the West Midlands County of England.

It is pertinent to state that Cameron Archer’s upbringing was very much a family-centered affair. Being the youngest, everyone in his family, including his brothers, took an active role in his development both as a well-rounded individual and as a talented athlete, which he has become.

For instance, Aaron, his eldest and camera-shy brother, often encouraged Cameron to engage in additional training sessions with him despite Cameron already completing sufficient training with his club.

Cameron Archer Early Life:

From as young as four years old, the young Archer, inspired by his three older brothers, embraced his destiny to become a footballer. His initial experience with the ball began in the back garden of his family home on Bloxwich Road, Walsall. These early kickabouts in the garden laid the foundation for Cameron’s formative football experiences.

Cameron, at the age of six, began his football journey with the town’s local academy while living in Walsall. Being steadfast and progressing at Walsall Academy brought him his first career honour. Because he was so good, Cameroon was quickly singled out as the most talented sports kid in his youth team.

Aside from being a talented sportsperson for Walsall, young Archer was seen as far superior to other kids of his age group. The fact that Cameron was far above the other kids meant only one thing. Everyone knew he deserved something higher and more competitive. People felt he deserved to be at Aston Villa Academy, one of the best football schools in Birmingham, England.

Archer confirmed that after scoring a hat trick for Walsall Academy against fierce rival Brownhills School. His third goal in that match still holds strong in his memory. That goal came in an acrobatic way, demonstrating why he truly deserved to be called by Aston Villa.

When you are far ahead of other kids, and you score hattricks, including an acrobatic goal, then it means one thing. Young Cameroon was not just destined to be great but deserved to be treated as the next Michael Owen when he was a kid. Yes, it took no time before Aston Villa came calling. To the joy of Cameron Archer’s Dad, as seen below, his son, a precious GEM of a footballer, signed for one of the biggest clubs in the English Midlands at the age of eight.

Cameron Archer Family Background:

When it comes to the Athlete’s household, the first thing to know is the fact that he, like Eden Hazard, comes from a home that lives and breathes football.

Starting with Cameron Archer’s older brother, – Aaron, is (at the time of writing) a retired forward and is now the lead first-team coach at non-league Dudley Town.

Jordan, the second son of Veronie and Richard, is a striker for Southport. Cameroon’s immediate older brother, Lewis, is also a striker, previously on Aston Villa’s books.

As you can see, football flows in the veins of all the children born to Nurse Veronie and Mr Richard.

Regarding what Cameron Archer’s parents do for a living, you might already sense that his Mum, Veronie, is a nurse.

Well, that is true! Veronie is a proud member of the Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust. Do you know? Cameroon’s Mum has worked at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust for 21 years and still counting.

Walsall Manor Hospital and Community Health is a UK Government hospital in Walsall, England. Veronie Archer is one of the leading figures at the hospital, a woman who was instrumental in saving lives during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Although Richard Archer’s occupation is not yet known, it is believed that he is the biggest driving factor in the football careers of his sons, Cameron, Lewis, Jordan and Aaron.

It is pertinent to state that the Archers are one of the most close-knit football families you can find in Walsall, England. They, a strong unit, support each other and hardly miss a game that involves Cameron, the baby of the house.

The photo below reveals one of those moments of family gathering for his Aston Villa youth game. From left to right, we have Richard Archer, Cameron’s Dad, then his older brother Jordan (the striker at Southport), Cameroon himself, his oldest brother, Aaron and of course, his Mum Veronie.

Cameron Archer Family Origin:

Initially, it’s important to note that the Sheffield United striker was born in Walsall, England, to an English father, which established his British citizenship and nationality.

Delving further into his heritage reveals that his mother, Veronie, has Jamaican ancestry, while his father, Richard, is entirely British.

In October 2021, BirminghamWorld reported an interview with former Aston Villa manager Dean Smith. Smith mentioned Archer potentially representing Wales internationally, sparking speculation about Welsh origins in his family, possibly from his father, Richard. However, the former Villa boss later retracted his statement, clarifying that Cameron was not and never had been eligible to represent Wales.

If you ask us about the part of England that Cameron Archer’s family comes from, our research will point to Walsall, near Birmingham.

Walsall is the administrative centre in the West Midlands County of England and also a great market town. As noticed from the map gallery, it is 9 miles (14 km) north-west of Birmingham and 7 miles (11 km) east of Wolverhampton.

Ethnicity:

Cameron Archer’s ethnicity is mixed, stemming from his British and Jamaican parental lineage.

With a darker complexion, he reflects the Jamaican heritage of his mother, Veronie Archer. In the context of skin colour, he is commonly identified as Black British, affirming his place within the Afro-Caribbean community.

Cameron Archer Education:

Veronie and Richard, despite their son’s aspiration to be a professional footballer, ensured he attended school.

When Cameron left Aston Villa for Sheffield, he shared a heartfelt farewell message. In it, he reminisced about playing football with friends in a barn after school.

During Key Stage 2 of his primary education, around ages 7 to 8, Archer attended Walsall Academy, a time that was significant in his academic and football journey.

It was at this age that Cameron started gaining recognition, particularly in matches against other local schools. A notable highlight was when he scored a hat trick against Brownhills School.

Career Buildup:

Richard Archer’s efforts in grooming his sons for their football careers were quite demanding. He frequently transported them – Aaron, Jordan, Lewis, and Cameron – to various training locations and match venues.

At times, Cameron and Lewis, his youngest sons, would play on Sunday mornings, followed by Richard taking Aaron and Lewis to their match in the afternoon.

After their games, Aaron would coach his younger brothers in the garden, setting up cones and acting as a goalkeeper while they practised shots.

It was all about football, relentlessly. Back then, Cameron and Lewis didn’t have much choice but to follow the part to becoming professional footballers.

Cameron, being smaller than his three brothers, had to exert extra effort to gain possession of the ball. Once he had it, he learned to maintain control and prevent others from taking it.

Soon enough, Cameron became so skilled that even his brothers struggled to take the ball from him. This is how Aaron, his older brother, described it.

“I believe that’s where Cameron gained so much of his strength and control. Playing with older kids teaches you to adapt,”

Aaron reflected on Cameron’s development.

Cameron Archer Bio – Football Story:

The quest to become a professional began at Walsall Academy. Interestingly, Cameron was recognized as the most talented kid during his childhood.

This distinction was due to his exceptional skills not only in football but also in various other sports. Archer’s all-around athletic prowess is reminiscent of well-known athletes like Alex Oxlade Chamberlain and Charles De Ketelaere, who were once known for their versatility.

You might find it interesting that Dean Smith, who later became the manager of Aston Villa, was the head coach of Walsall’s senior team from 2011 to 2015.

Not only was he a legend for the club during his playing days from 1989 to 1994, but Smith also played a significant role in mentoring the players at the Walsall academy.

He had a profound impact on Cameron Archer’s early development at the club, providing him with a strong foundation for his career.

Young Cameron’s natural talent with the ball caught the attention of Aston Villa scouts when he was just eight years old. The academy, situated on Witton Lane, is a 22-minute drive from Walsall, where Cameron’s family resides. Thanks to his parents’ support, Cameron consistently attended training sessions, which he seldom missed.

Road to Fame Story:

Aston Villa, a prominent football club, has produced numerous talented players over the years. Notably, when Cameron Archer settled at the club around the age of nine or ten, Aston Villa’s senior team boasted notable talents like Jack Grealish (LW), Ashley Young (RB), Fabian Delph and Kyle Walker (RB). Archer aspired to achieve his dream of playing for the esteemed Midlands club at the senior level.

Continuing his prolific goal-scoring record from his time at his previous club, the local team Walsall, Archer’s impressive form persisted at the Villa Academy.

Reports suggest that he was significantly more advanced than other children of his age group. Archer consistently maintained this high level of performance as he progressed through the youth ranks of the Aston Villa academy.

Cameron Archer’s parents were present for his last few games leading up to the momentous occasion of their son signing his first professional contract. As pictured below, the expression of pure joy on his father’s face was unmistakable.

Cameron always feels an overwhelming sense of pride in having Richard as his father. He is deeply appreciative of the time and effort Richard had invested in his journey.

Cameron Archer Biography – Rise to Fame:

The day he had eagerly anticipated finally arrived, marking the realization of his football dreams. In July 2020, an elated Cameron, surrounded by the happiness of his parents, brothers, friends, and relatives, signed his professional contract with Aston Villa.

On that day, he was engrossed in paperwork, completing and signing documents with a mix of emotions. After signing his contract, he shared the following words on his Instagram:

Very happy to have signed a professional contract with Aston villa. I want to thank everyone who has supported me so far, more than 10 years of hard work to get here and we’re only just getting started.

Cameron Archer became part of an Aston Villa team filled with talented players such as Jacob Ramsey, Jack Grealish, Douglas Luiz (DM), Ezri Konsa and Tyrone Mings. During this period, Chelsea sensation Carney Chukwuemeka was yet to sign his senior contract with the Villa senior team. In the same season that Cameron secured his new contract, he also received a significant opportunity: a call-up to England’s U20 team, a true double blessing indeed.

Successful Loan Journies:

After scoring a hat-trick in his full debut for Aston Villa during an EFL Cup match against Barrow, Cameron Archer quickly became a sought-after transfer target for many English clubs.

His impressive performance and goals drew the attention of his coaches, solidifying their belief in his potential for the Premier League. Following this achievement, Archer briefly returned to the U23 squad but soon embarked on a loan move to Solihull Moors, not settling for long in Aston Villa’s U23 team.

Like Kieffer Moore and Ademola Lookman, Archer was open to starting in lower leagues to work his way up. On October 2, 2020, the Villa shooter joined Solihull Moors in the National League via loan.

During the coronavirus pandemic, eager for more senior football experience, he later moved on loan to Preston North End. Just two days after joining the club, he scored on his debut in the Championship, contributing to a 2–0 away win at West Bromwich Albion.

The decision to leave his Boyhood club:

Ahead of the 2022–23 season, there was considerable discussion about Archer’s future at his parent club. Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard, having been impressed by Archer’s performance during a pre-season tour in Australia, became a fan of his gameplay. Consequently, on August 5, 2022, Gerrard awarded Archer a five-year contract with Aston Villa.

After signing a five-year deal, Cameron faced limited playing opportunities at Aston Villa under Gerrard. He was competing for frontline positions with players like Ollie Watkins (CF), Danny Ings, and Jhon Duran. Frustrated by the lack of first-team chances, Archer chose to join Championship club Middlesbrough on loan.

Archer went on loan to Championship club Middlesbrough for the rest of the 2022/2023 season. There, he formed a strong partnership with Chuba Akpom and Aaron Ramsey, Jacob Ramsey’s brother. This loan spell opened up more game-time opportunities for him, including getting transfer requests from other clubs. With new Aston Villa boss Unai Emery not considering him for selection, Archer realized it was time to leave his childhood club.

Upon his arrival at Aston Villa, Unai Emery aimed to bolster the squad with foreign talent. This led to the signings of players like Moussa Diaby (LW), Nicolo Zaniolo (AM), Pau Torres, and free agent Youri Tielemans. Emery’s preference was for players with extensive European experience, a criterion Cameron didn’t meet. Consequently, on August 27, 2023, Cameron agreed to transfer to Sheffield United.

Rise with The Blades and England Youth:

Sheffield United ultimately secured Archer’s signature amidst interest from various clubs. On August 27, 2023, The Blades announced Archer’s signing on a four-year contract (TribalFootball revealed).

Aston Villa, keen not to lose their talent entirely, included a buy-back clause in the deal. This arrangement allows them to monitor Archer’s progress and potentially bring him back at a more opportune time (for a given transfer fee).

As of the time this biography was written, Cameron Archer experienced a significant surge in his career with Sheffield United, notably marked by impressive goals against Everton and Wolves. Beyond his club achievements, Archer sought to showcase his skills on a different stage. On June 14, 2023, he was selected by Lee Carsley for England’s team in the UEFA European Under-21 Championship.

Coming on as a late substitute in the final, sharpshooter Archer played a crucial role in helping England defeat Spain and secure the prestigious tournament victory.

On the day of Cameron Archer’s European victory, his parents and brothers were overwhelmed with joy, seeing the youngest member of their family celebrate such a significant triumph.

History will certainly remember the distinguished members of England’s team that triumphed unbeaten in the 2023 UEFA European Under-21 Championship.

Key players include James Garner from Everton, Levi Colwill of Chelsea, Max Aarons from Bournemouth, Emile Smith Rowe of Arsenal, and Curtis Jones from Liverpool. Additionally, notable contributions came from Morgan Gibbs-White of Wolves, Angel Gomes from Lille, Cole Palmer and Noni Madueke of Chelsea, Anthony Gordon from Newcastle, Oliver Skipp from Spurs, Harvey Elliott of Liverpool, and Tommy Doyle from Wolves. The rest, as we say, is now history.

Love Life:

Winning the UEFA European Under-21 Championship marks a promising beginning in Cameron’s burgeoning career. Archer is not only shaping up to be a talented footballer but also using his charming looks to capture the hearts of many female fans.

Undoubtedly, Archer has garnered a significant female fan base, many of whom might aspire to be in a close relationship with him, whether as a girlfriend, the mother of his child, or even as a casual partner. In light of this, we pose the ultimate question:

Who is  Cameron Archer’s dating?

As of the latest information available, Cameron Archer has not shared any public information about the status of his relationship. It appears that, as of 2023, he is primarily concentrating on his career and is not keen on revealing aspects of his personal life on social media. However, it is likely that in due time, Archer fans will become acquainted with his girlfriend or a potential wife in his life.

Personality Facts:

Who is Cameron Archer?

Cam, always mindful of his roots, often gives back to the community that supported his growth. On this particular day, he chose to skip his personal plans to visit the Under-8s at the Academy. Returning to where his journey began, he excitedly surprised the young players. Archer was well aware that he would be enthusiastically bombarded with questions from the kids!

Archer has described himself as a goofy, fun-loving, and generous person off the pitch. He prefers playing as a striker and has a special fondness for the number 9 shirt, although he can also play as a Second Striker or Right Winger.

Off the field, Archer values a comfortable and controversy-free lifestyle. Cameroon’s social media presence does not display a luxurious lifestyle, nor does it feature expensive cars or displays of wealth. For fitness, he enjoys a home workout routine that combines cycling for cardio with rope exercises for strength and agility.

Cameron Archer Family Life:

As the youngest in his home, Cam was well-understood and cared for by his parents and older brothers. His football success, highlighted by winning the UEFA European Under-21 Championship, is not just a team effort. It’s also fueled by the support and motivation from his family, whom he holds dear. Let’s dive into more details about them.

About Cameron Archer Father:

Richard Archer is a constant figure in his son’s life, which is evident from the beginning until Cameron signed his professional contract. The photo below speaks volumes about the father’s role in Cameron’s journey. He was there when Cameron first signed with Villa Academy, supported him throughout, and witnessed his transition to a professional contract. Truly a proud father!

About Cameron Archer Mother:

At her workplace in Walsall Manor Hospital, Veronie is seen as a dedicated nurse. Outside work, she is the proud mother of the 2023 UEFA European Under-21 Championship winner. Cameron Archer may be a talented player, but his mother, Veronie, is a better nurse. On this day, the great woman who has worked for more than 21 years at the Walsall Manor Hospital celebrated her son’s England U-21 victory. The staff of Walsall Manor Hospital were all proud of Veronie, their colleague.

Veronie, alongside her husband, deeply understands the pride of being a parent, particularly when witnessing their child represent their country in football. Additionally, much like Ian Wright, Veronie is a staunch supporter of women’s inclusion in the sport. She attended women’s 2022 Euro final match matches with her husband, Richard, and their youngest sons, Lewis and Cameron. Veronie expressed her pride when she watched England’s women’s team win the finals. Archer’s Mum shared her thoughts, saying:

“Ian Wright has been a vocal advocate for girls playing football in PE at school, and I completely agree with that.

Before the final, I was so excited, jumping, shouting, screaming, and singing ‘It’s Coming Home!'”

About Cameron Archer Siblings:

Born under the Sagittarius sign in Walsall, he is the youngest of four, with three older brothers. In this part of his biography, we delve into the lives of his brothers, starting with Veronie and Richard’s eldest son.

Aaron Archer:

Born on the 25th day of January 1989, he is Cameron’s oldest brother. Camera-shy Aaron Archer is a man with an impressive background in local non-league football. Cameron’s brother took his first steps into coaching in the 2017/2018 season.

As I write this Bio, Aaron Archer is the first-team coach at Dudley Town, a non-league club. Aaron, the brother, once arranged additional summer training sessions for Cameron. This extra training gave Cameron an edge over his teammates.

Jordan McFarlane-Archer:

Born Scorpio on the 11th of November 1993, Jordan is an English professional footballer who, at the time of writing, plays as a forward for National League North club Southport. Jordan McFarlane-Archer is a father to his son, Morgan. In June 2015, Jord (his nickname) was described by Redditch United manager Liam McDonald as “strong and fast and knows where the goal is.”

It is important to note that Jordan Archer is not related to the QPR goalkeeper – who bears the full name Jordan Gideon Archer. Again, Cameron’s brother has an outstanding height of 6 feet 3 inches. This, of course, makes him to be a fearless forward like Alexander Isak.

Jordan McFarlane-Archer has had a rollercoaster of a career. After graduating from Chasetown Academy, he spent his early senior career with a multitude of non-League clubs. After playing for eight non-league clubs within the time of five years, Jordan signed for Chester in October 2017. Between 2018 and 2020, he moved again between 6 different teams before finally settling with Southport.

Lewis Archer:

Research indicates that Lewis, like his brothers Cameron and Jordan, was a striker who formerly played with Aston Villa. After leaving the Aston Villa academy in the 2014/2015 season, he played for Rushall Olympic. He then joined these clubs – Hednesford Town, Guiseley AFC, and Altrincham. As of the time this biography was written, Lewis Archer plays for Stourbridge FC.

Untold Facts:

In the final section of Cameron Archer’s Biography, we’ll unveil truths you might not know about him. Without further ado, let’s get started.

Cameron Archer’s Salary:

His contract with Sheffield United earns him a substantial £30,000 per week at the time of writing. According to a Capology report, Rhian Brewster earns slightly more at £35,000 weekly, while Tom Davies also makes £30,000. Oliver McBurnie, on the other hand, earns a bit less at £25,000 per week.

As of November 2023, Cameron’s annual salary with Sheffield United is an impressive £1,562,400. When converted to Jamaican Dollars, this amount is astonishing, totalling over a billion Jamaican Dollars (JA$296,683,398) annually.

How rich is the footballer from Walsall?

In Jamaica, where Cameron Archer’s paternal relatives are from, the average income is JMD $2,265,475 per year. Interestingly, it would take an average Jamaican 10.9 years to earn what Cameron makes in a month at Sheffield United. His monthly salary is £130,200, equivalent to JA$24,723,616.

FIFA Game Facts:

When you think of a footballer who is grossly underrated in FIFA, look no further than Archer. Considering his impressive form with Sheffield United, the Forward deserves an uplift to his stats, which should spread across board. In his FIFA ratings, at the time of writing, Cameron excels best in his moments. His core strengths of movement and power are quite similar to those possessed by Moussa Dembélé and Brian Brobbey.

Cameron Archer Religion:

Except for that of his brothers, Aaron and Jordan, his first name does not have any specific religious connotations or origins tied to Christianity.

Although Cameron was born into a Christian family, he isn’t the type who displays his faith in the public domain. The likes of Trevoh Chalobah and Bukayo Saka are examples of English footballers who publicly identify with their Christian faith.

EndNote:

Cameron Archer was born in Walsall near Birmingham to his Mum, Veronie and Dad, Richard. He, the last born of the family, grew up alongside his older brothers, Aaron, Jordan and Lewis.

Cameron Archer has Jamaican family roots through his Mum, Veronie. She, who boasts more than 21 years of experience in her job, is a staff nurse at the Manor Hospital and Community Health.

The Archer brothers, just like that of the Hazard family, are all into football. Cameron’s oldest brother, Aaron, is a coach, and his other brothers, Jordan and Lewis, are both footballers (Forwards).

Early on, Richard, their Dad, ensured his three sons played the forward positions because he wanted them to all score goals.

Alongside Cameron’s mum, Veronie, his dad, Richard, was a big driving factor in his career and that of his older brothers. Before enrolling with his first club, Walsall Academy, Archer used to play in the barn after school with his friends.

He also had lots of training sessions with his brothers, which enhanced his physical and mental development. One of the most memorable moments of Cameron Archer’s early career was when he scored a hat-trick for Walsall Academy against Brownhills School.

Archer enrolled with Villa Academy when he was aged 8. From the moment he began training with Villa, Archer’s football skills got noticed.

He was seen as far superior to other children of his age. In his early years at the club, Cameron’s older brother, Aaron, assisted in putting up extra summer training sessions to prepare him for his great future. Archer made his first-team debut at 17 in August 2019.

Cameron spent 14 years at Aston Villa before agreeing to leave the club. He decided to leave to join Sheffield United when he was on the fringes of Villa’s first team.

The lessons he learnt from Villa became so valuable. And Arhier himself agreed that he would carry them with him for the rest of his life.

Appreciation Note:

Thank you for taking the time to read our version of Cameron Archer’s Biography. Our team of writers care about accuracy and fairness in our continuous quest to tell the stories of English Football Players. Archer’s Bio is part of our wider collection of United Kingdom Football stories.

Please reach out to us through the comment section if you notice any discrepancies in this memoir about the two-footed frontman whose career is deeply rooted in family. Additionally, we welcome your thoughts on Archer in the comments, including your opinions on the impressive story we have shared about him.

Aside from Cameron’s Bio, we’ve got other interesting Football Stories that will interest you. From a Scottish perspective, we advise you to read the Life History of Kevin Nisbet and Lyndon Dykes. Also, have you read the story of Tahith Chong, the fast-rising Curaçao-born talent?