Kevin De Bruyne
~The Ginger Pele
Jun 28' 1991
Belgium
The Exhilarating Story...
In the world of football, few stories are as inspiring as that of Kevin De Bruyne. Known for his incredible vision on the field and his relentless work ethic, De Bruyne’s journey to becoming one of the premier midfielders in the world is a testament to the power of perseverance and resilience. Born in Drongen, Belgium, Kevin De Bruyne's passion for football was evident from an early age. However, his path was not without obstacles. At the age of 14, De Bruyne joined the Genk academy, a move that required him to live away from his family. The separation was challenging, and the young athlete struggled with homesickness. Despite these personal trials, De Bruyne's commitment never wavered, and his performances on the field began to draw attention. De Bruyne’s career faced a significant test during his time at Chelsea. After joining one of England's top clubs, he found himself rarely in the starting lineup. The lack of playing time was frustrating, and in 2014, he made the tough decision to leave Chelsea and join Wolfsburg in Germany. This move proved pivotal. At Wolfsburg, De Bruyne became a star, leading the team to a DFB-Pokal victory and earning himself the German Footballer of the Year award in 2015. His success at Wolfsburg was a clear message to the world: he was not to be underestimated. Kevin De Bruyne’s move to Manchester City in 2015 was the beginning of an illustrious chapter in his career. Under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, he has flourished, playing a key role in multiple Premier League titles. His ability to make precise passes, coupled with his extraordinary vision, makes him a formidable opponent on the pitch. Beyond his technical skills, De Bruyne's mental strength is admirable. He has repeatedly demonstrated his ability to overcome setbacks and disappointments, emerging stronger each time. His journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience, hard work, and determination. For young athletes who face their own hurdles, Kevin De Bruyne's story is profoundly motivational. It underscores the importance of persistence, the courage to make difficult decisions, and the resilience to overcome personal and professional challenges. His story also highlights the significance of finding the right environment to develop one’s skills, as his career truly blossomed once he found clubs that suited his playing style. Kevin De Bruyne's journey from a young talent facing homesickness and limited playtime to becoming one of the world’s leading footballers is not just about sports. It's about the universal struggle to find one’s place in the world and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams despite numerous setbacks. His story encourages us all to keep pushing, adapting, and thriving, no matter the obstacles we face. For all those young athletes participating in programs like the 8lete grassroots program, remember that every challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger and more skilled. Kevin De Bruyne’s story isn’t just his—it could be yours too. Keep striving, keep improving, and most importantly, never give up on your dreams.
“
Playing me in different positions helped me to get in the head of the others players: to know what they're thinking, where and how they are going to move.
Career
Last updated: Jun 27' 2024
KRC Genk
- Career: 2008–2012
- Total Appearances: 97
- Total Goals: 16
Chelsea
- Career: 2012–2014
- Total Appearances: 3
- Total Goals: 0
Werder Bremen
- Career: 2012–2013 (Loan)
- Total Appearances: 33
- Total Goals: 10
VfL Wolfsburg
- Career: 2014–2015
- Total Appearances: 52
- Total Goals: 13
Manchester City
- Career: 2015-Present
- Total Appearances: 257
- Total Goals: 68
Belgium Football
- Career: 2010-Present
- Total Appearances: 103
- Total Goals: 28
Achievements
Genk
- 1x Belgian Pro League
- 1x Belgian Cup
- 1x Belgian Super Cup
VfL Wolfsburg
- 1x DFB-Pokal
- 1x DFL-Supercup
Manchester City
- 6x Premier League
- 2x FA Cup (1x runner-up)
- 5x Football League/EFL Cup
- 1x FA Community Shield
- 1x UEFA Champions League (1x runner-up)
Belgium
- 1x FIFA World Cup third place
Individual
- 1x Bundesliga Young Player of the Year
- 1x Bundesliga Player of the Year
- 1x Bundesliga Team of the Year
- 1x Bundesliga top assist provider
- 1x UEFA Europa League Squad of the Season
- 1x Goal of the Month (Germany)
- 1x Footballer of the Year (Germany)
- 1x France Football World XI
- 1x Belgian Sportsman of the Year
- 4x Best Belgian Player Abroad
- 4x Manchester City Player of the Season
- 1x Manchester City Goal of the Season
- 4x FIFA FIFPRO World 11
- 6x IFFHS Men's World Team
- 3x UEFA Team of the Year
- 5x ESM Team of the Year
- 5x PFA Premier League Team of the Year
- 3x Premier League Playmaker of the Season
- 6x UEFA Champions League Team of the Season
- 1x FIFA World Cup Dream Team
- 2x Premier League Goal of the Month
- 2x Premier League Player of the Season
- 2x PFA Players' Player of the Year
- 1x FSA Player of the Year
- 1x UEFA Champions League Midfielder of the Season
- 3x IFFHS World's Best Playmaker
- 1x IFFHS UEFA Team of the Decade
- 1x RBFA 125 Years Icons Team
- 1x IFFHS All Time Belgium XI
- 2x Premier League Player of the Year by Northwest Football Awards
Celebrating
McFratm
Football
May 26' 2025
Celebrating Grit & Growth Scott Francis McTominay.
When Scott Francis McTominay was born on December 8, 1996, in Lancaster, England, few could predict the resilience that would come to define his journey. Though eligible to play for England, Scott proudly chose his father’s heritage — Scotland — to represent at the international level. His early years weren’t filled with trophies or easy breaks. They were filled with quiet grind, repeated rejection, and constant injury setbacks that shaped a warrior’s heart within a boy. Scott’s parents, especially his father, Frank McTominay, stood tall behind his dreams. As a working-class family, they couldn't offer lavish facilities, but they gave something far more valuable — unshakable belief. From long drives to training grounds to constant emotional support during injury-ridden phases, their unwavering commitment became Scott’s foundation. His mother, too, was instrumental in helping him stay mentally strong through difficult transitions from youth to senior level. Scott joined Manchester United’s youth academy at the age of just five. But unlike many academy stars who shine early, McTominay’s growth was painfully slow — literally. Between the ages of 14 and 18, he struggled with a series of growth-related injuries and knee problems that kept him on the sidelines for long spells. Many coaches and scouts doubted whether he would make it. There were moments when even Scott questioned himself. But here’s where his character stood apart. Scott refused to let injuries define him. He poured his energy into recovery, rehabilitation, and learning. Under the guidance of United's academy physios and strength coaches, and the mentorship of Nicky Butt, he gradually grew into his lanky 6'4" frame and reshaped his game — from a forward to a dominant midfielder. One of the most pivotal moments came under José Mourinho, who gave him his senior debut in 2017. Despite having more technically gifted peers, Mourinho valued Scott's discipline, work ethic, and tactical awareness. “I have a special affection for Scott,” Mourinho once said — a rare public endorsement that boosted Scott’s confidence on the world stage. Scott's international journey, too, wasn’t without hurdles. Despite his England birth, he pledged loyalty to Scotland and debuted in 2018. While criticism sometimes came from both English and Scottish camps, McTominay silenced doubters with his tireless performances, often playing in multiple positions — including central defense — to serve the team. In the face of skeptics and recurring team changes, Scott never complained. He kept showing up — in form or out of it, winning or losing. That silent consistency earned him the nickname "Mr. Reliable" among fans. His recent performances in the Euro 2024 qualifiers were particularly stellar, including a stunning brace against Spain that reminded the world of his attacking flair and fearlessness. As of mid-2025, Scott continues to anchor Manchester United’s midfield and remains a key figure in Scotland’s national setup. Despite rumors about tactical shifts under the new manager, his place is secure — not because of PR or stardom, but because of pure dependability and hard-earned respect. Scott McTominay's story is not about overnight success. It’s about slow-burning perseverance. About believing in yourself when your body breaks down, when others get the spotlight, and when success feels out of reach. It’s about staying grounded, staying grateful, and fighting on. For every young footballer questioning their progress, Scott’s journey offers a powerful truth: You don’t need to be the fastest, flashiest, or most hyped. You just need to be the most relentless.
READ MORE
Celebrating
Cuti
Football
May 22' 2025
Celebrating Grit & Dreams Cristian Romero.
Cristian Gabriel Romero, born on April 27, 1998, in Córdoba, Argentina, grew up in a modest household filled with football dreams and financial challenges. The youngest of three siblings, Cristian was raised by his parents, Rosa and Quito Romero, who worked tirelessly to provide for their family. In a neighborhood where options were limited, football wasn’t just a game — it was an escape. Romero’s love for the sport began on the rugged pitches of Córdoba. His physical playing style and no-nonsense defending quickly earned him attention. But behind the aggressive tackles and fearless headers was a boy battling more than just opponents — he was fighting poverty, lack of visibility, and self-doubt. His early life was far from the manicured stadiums he would one day dominate. Despite his raw talent, Cristian often faced rejection due to his rough-around-the-edges approach. He didn’t fit the typical academy mold. But his father stood firm behind him. Quito would walk miles with Cristian to training sessions, often skipping work just to support his son’s dream. His mother, Rosa, kept his spirit alive through her unwavering belief that her son was destined for greatness. Cristian’s big break came through Belgrano, a local club that recognized the beast within. His tenacity on the field was matched by his humility off it. Belgrano became his first proving ground, and soon, the European scouts took notice. But even then, the transition wasn’t smooth. After signing for Genoa in Italy in 2018, he faced cultural and language barriers. His first year was plagued with injuries and loneliness. It would’ve broken most — but not Romero. The turning point came at Atalanta, where under coach Gian Piero Gasperini, Cristian was molded into a defensive juggernaut. Gasperini trusted him, guided him, and let him play with the aggression that was once criticized. That trust transformed Romero’s game, and he was soon voted Serie A’s Best Defender in 2020–21. In 2021, Tottenham Hotspur secured his services, and Romero brought the same intensity to the Premier League. But perhaps his biggest moment came wearing the blue and white — for Argentina. In the 2022 FIFA World Cup, he played a pivotal role in Argentina’s defensive line, helping them secure the ultimate glory in Qatar. The boy from Córdoba had arrived — not just as a player, but as a champion. Throughout his career, Cristian has credited not only his parents but also coaches, teammates, and mentors who believed in him when others didn't. He’s a testament to what happens when talent meets work ethic and emotional backing. From the barrio to the Bernabéu, his story is one of relentless belief. As of 2025, Cristian Romero continues to be a cornerstone of Tottenham’s defense and a regular starter for the Argentina national team. Known for his fearless tackling and commanding presence, he’s also become a mentor to younger players, reminding them that the journey matters just as much as the destination. Cristian’s story isn’t just about football — it’s about grit, sacrifice, and rising above odds. He reminds every young athlete that even if the world overlooks you, believing in yourself — and having just a few people who do the same — can take you to unimaginable heights.
READ MORE
Celebrating
Defoe
Football
May 20' 2025
Celebrating Humility & Resilience Jermain Colin Defoe.
Born on October 7, 1982, in Beckton, East London, Jermain Colin Defoe’s life was never paved with gold. Raised by his mother Sandra and father Jimmy Defoe, young Jermain grew up in a challenging environment where survival often took precedence over dreams. Yet, even as a boy, he showed extraordinary commitment to the game that would eventually give him global recognition — football. Much of Jermain’s emotional strength comes from his mother Sandra. When his father left the family, Sandra became his rock — juggling jobs to keep her son in school and football. Their bond strengthened through hardship, and her unwavering support laid the foundation for Jermain’s relentless discipline and humility on and off the pitch. At age 14, Defoe moved away from home to join the FA’s National School at Lilleshall. That separation from his mother was the first emotional scar. Years later, in 2009, tragedy struck again when his half-brother, Jade Defoe, was killed in a street attack. The grief was crushing, and Jermain questioned everything — even football. But each time, he turned pain into fuel. Glenn Hoddle, Harry Redknapp, and other managers were more than tacticians for Defoe — they were life mentors. Redknapp, in particular, was instrumental, signing him for West Ham and later Tottenham. These figures not only believed in his skill but nurtured his growth, understanding his vulnerabilities and teaching him how to lead with heart. In 2016, Jermain met Bradley Lowery, a terminally ill six-year-old Sunderland fan. Their bond moved the world. Defoe wasn’t just a friend — he became Bradley’s hero and honorary big brother. Even during England duties, Jermain visited him in the hospital. When Bradley passed in 2017, it was one of the most emotional moments in football — and it revealed the extraordinary compassion Defoe carried quietly. Despite his small frame for a striker, Defoe’s longevity is legendary. He credits this to his disciplined lifestyle — early nights, hydration, nutrition, and abstaining from alcohol. In an era where players seek flashy lifestyles, Jermain chose simplicity and preparation. It wasn’t glamorous, but it made him a role model for aspiring athletes. Defoe has openly spoken about his faith — how prayer and belief helped him during dark times. Reconnecting with his estranged father later in life also taught him about forgiveness. In recent years, he has expressed his desire for fatherhood and building a legacy rooted in care, not just goals. After retiring in 2022, Defoe seamlessly transitioned into punditry and mentoring. But more importantly, he started the Jermain Defoe Foundation, which supports vulnerable children across the Caribbean and the UK. His foundation echoes his life’s deeper mission — using personal trials to uplift others. In 2024–25, Jermain continues to appear on football panels and works closely with young strikers in development academies across England. He’s often spotted at charity events and school visits, sharing stories that resonate far beyond football. Recently, he’s been an advocate for mental health awareness in sport, especially for young Black British athletes. With over 300 club goals and 57 England caps, Defoe’s stats are remarkable. But his true legacy lies in his empathy, resilience, and humility. He reminds us that greatness isn’t measured just in numbers, but in how you carry others through your own battles. Jermain Defoe is not just a footballer — he’s a quiet revolution in boots.
