The Dubliner proved to be a key player for Tom Mohan's team in qualifying for Ireland's first finals appearance at this level since 2011 and he was rewarded for that by being named as vice-captain.
Afolabi embraced that responsibility of working hard for the team with the knowledge that he would already be self-motivated to showcase his qualities to any watching scouts or club officials considering he was a free agent.
Having left Southampton, Afolabi knew that performing well in the group games against Norway, France and Czech Republic would help him to secure his future in the professional game.
He didn't disappoint with three superb displays and a memorable solo goal in the final Group B outing that secured a semi-final spot.
"It feels surreal and a huge honour to be included in the Team of the Tournament at the EUROs," said Afolabi.
"As much as it is an individual achievement it is also a team achievement because without the team, and staff members, this wouldn't be possible.
"We had a great campaign all season and done very well to get to the semi-finals but we deserved much more.
"Hopefully this tournament will open up great opportunities for me and it is an experience that I will never forget."
2019 UEFA European Under-19 Championship Team of the Tournament
Goalkeeper: Arnau Tenas (Spain & Barcelona)
Defenders: Víctor Gómez (Spain & Espanyol), Eric García (Spain & Manchester City), Oumar Solet (France & Lyon), Juan Miranda (Spain & Barcelona)
Midfielders: Maxence Caqueret (France & Lyon), Antonio Blanco (Spain & Real Madrid), Fábio Vieira (Portugal & Porto)
Forwards: Ferrán Torres (Spain & Valencia), Jonathan Afolabi (Republic of Ireland & unattached), Félix Correia (Portugal & Sporting CP)