The way I play football gets people off their seats, says Iliman Ndiaye, who has been making headlines this season for Everton. His incredible performance, highlighted by a stunning goal against Sunderland, showcases a player who has truly found his platform in the Premier League.
Ndiaye's path to success, however, was not a straightforward one. Over the years, he faced numerous rejections, including notable clubs like Chelsea and Tottenham. His journey took a pivotal turn when he joined Boreham Wood in the fifth tier of English football, before progressing to Sheffield United's development team where his potential began to shine.
A vital factor in Ndiaye's development was his involvement with Rising Ballers, a media brand geared towards showcasing unsigned talent. The things I was doing there, I wasn't doing at other clubs. It helped me stay fit and enjoy football more, especially when you don't have a club, he shared, reflecting on how the program rekindled his passion for the game.
With only 180 of 1.5 million boys that play organized youth football in England making it to the Premier League, Ndiaye's ascent is a testament to his hard work and determination. He encourages young players not to focus on rejections but to remain committed to their craft, stating, I've trained my whole time to be a football player and just believe in my ability.
As he continues to make waves in the Premier League, Ndiaye serves as an inspiration to many young footballers, including those currently involved with Rising Ballers, who look up to his remarkable journey from grassroots to professional football. He represents a beacon of hope for those seeking to carve out their paths in the challenging world of football.
Ndiaye's path to success, however, was not a straightforward one. Over the years, he faced numerous rejections, including notable clubs like Chelsea and Tottenham. His journey took a pivotal turn when he joined Boreham Wood in the fifth tier of English football, before progressing to Sheffield United's development team where his potential began to shine.
A vital factor in Ndiaye's development was his involvement with Rising Ballers, a media brand geared towards showcasing unsigned talent. The things I was doing there, I wasn't doing at other clubs. It helped me stay fit and enjoy football more, especially when you don't have a club, he shared, reflecting on how the program rekindled his passion for the game.
With only 180 of 1.5 million boys that play organized youth football in England making it to the Premier League, Ndiaye's ascent is a testament to his hard work and determination. He encourages young players not to focus on rejections but to remain committed to their craft, stating, I've trained my whole time to be a football player and just believe in my ability.
As he continues to make waves in the Premier League, Ndiaye serves as an inspiration to many young footballers, including those currently involved with Rising Ballers, who look up to his remarkable journey from grassroots to professional football. He represents a beacon of hope for those seeking to carve out their paths in the challenging world of football.
