COLOMBO, Sri Lanka, July 29, 2025 (ePRESS) – Sri Lanka has unearthed a rare football talent in 16-year-old Aditha Menuhas Wickramarathne, a dreamer with bold ambition and fast feet, now knocking on the doors of international stardom.
Born in Italy and raised on football dreams, Aditha has made history as the youngest ever player selected to Sri Lanka’s Under-23 football pool for the upcoming AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers in Uzbekistan this September.
Despite still being eligible for the U17 team, Aditha has defied his age to earn a place in the initial 25-member squad, a group that will be trimmed to 20 ahead of a tour to Qatar starting August 15. There, Sri Lanka’s U23s will play two friendlies against Syria and Qatar, crucial warm-ups ahead of their Group E qualifying clashes against Uzbekistan, Palestine, and Kyrgyz Republic from September 1 to 9.
A final team selection is set for August 9.
Currently studying Advanced Level business and marketing at Istituto Paci Seregno in Italy, Aditha plays for UC Albinoleffe, where he has steadily risen over the past two years, impressing selectors with his flair, creativity, and goal-scoring ability. He plays as a right midfielder and models his game on his idol Cristiano Ronaldo — a footballer whose confidence and style shaped Aditha’s approach from a very young age.
His football journey began at just five years old in his village team in Italy. He spent nine years in grassroots football before breaking into club football ranks, showing maturity beyond his years.
Aditha is not only inspired by international stars but also looks up to Sri Lanka’s own – especially current national team midfielder Dillon de Silva and captain and goalkeeper Sujan Perera.
What makes his story even more remarkable is his sporting bloodline. His mother, Pradeepa Herath, was part of Sri Lanka’s historic women’s 4x100m Olympic relay team at the Sydney 2000 Olympics, alongside Damayanthi Darsha, Nimmi de Zoysa, and Thamara Samandeepika.
His father, NS Wickramarathne, a Sri Lankan Army Officer and has been a pillar of strength in Aditha’s life.
“I believe one day I can play for the senior national team and even win a Football World Cup for Sri Lanka,” Aditha says with bold hope. “Italy is a great place to grow as a footballer, but I want to wear the Sri Lanka jersey and bring pride to my country.”
Sri Lanka Football selectors are watching closely. In a sport that rarely sees teenage breakthroughs at senior levels, Aditha’s rise could signal a new era for Sri Lankan football.
And perhaps, a World Cup dream that once seemed impossible may one day find its way through the determined boots of this young Lankan born in Italy.
