N'Golo Kanté
~Kanté
Mar 29' 1991
France
The Exhilarating Story...
In the world of football, where the glitter of fame often overshadows the grind behind success, the story of N'Golo Kanté serves as a profound reminder of resilience, humility, and relentless hard work. Born in 1991 in Paris to Malian parents, Kanté's journey from the hard streets of a Parisian suburb to the lush pitches of the Premier League is nothing short of inspirational. N'Golo grew up in a small apartment in Rueil-Malmaison, a suburb not known for producing footballing talent. His early life was marred by financial constraints and personal losses, including the death of his father when he was just 11 years old. Despite these challenges, Kanté found solace and purpose in football. He started his career at JS Suresnes in the western suburbs of Paris, a small local club far from the professional spotlight. The diminutive midfielder was often overlooked by scouts who favored physically imposing players. However, his extraordinary work ethic set him apart. His former coach at Suresnes once noted that Kanté would train more and run faster than anyone else, often running to training and games because he couldn’t afford public transport. Kanté’s big break came when he joined Boulogne and then moved to Caen, playing in the lower tiers of French football. Here, he honed his skills and showcased his ability to dominate the midfield, not through physicality but through sheer persistence and tactical intelligence. His performances in Ligue 2 with Caen earned him a move to Leicester City in 2015, a decision that would change his life and the fate of the club. At Leicester, Kanté's impact was immediate and profound. In his first season, he helped the club achieve the unthinkable: winning the Premier League against odds of 5000-1. His tireless running, interceptions, and ability to regain possession were pivotal in Leicester’s fairy-tale triumph. Kanté’s story continued at Chelsea, where he won additional Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League, establishing himself as one of the world's best midfielders. N'Golo Kanté's journey is a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes everywhere, particularly those who may not have access to the best facilities or financial backing. His life underscores that with passion, resilience, and an unwavering work ethic, success is achievable. Programs like the 8lete grassroots program in Mumbai are pivotal in supporting young athletes who dream of following in the footsteps of players like Kanté. These initiatives provide not just training and exposure but also a belief that no dream is too distant when you have the heart and hustle to chase it. Despite his success, Kanté remains humble and grounded. He's known for driving a modest car and living a low-key lifestyle, focusing on his game and his community. Kanté’s story teaches us that true champions are not just born; they are made through effort, endurance, and the pure love of their sport. In every sprint, every intercept, and every game, N'Golo Kanté carries the essence of his journey—an essence characterized by humility, resilience, and the unyielding spirit of someone who has conquered adversity to achieve his dreams. Let his story inspire you to push your limits and believe in the possibility of your potential.
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I've seen new experiences and new challenges every year. I take them step by step.
Career
Last updated: Jun 22' 2024
Boulogne
- Career: 2012–2013
- Total Appearances: 38
- Total Goals: 3
Caen
- Career: 2013–2015
- Total Appearances: 75
- Total Goals: 4
Leicester City FC
- Career: 2015–2016
- Total Appearances: 37
- Total Goals: 1
Chelsea
- Career: 2016–2023
- Total Appearances: 190
- Total Goals: 11
Al - Ittihad
- Career: 2023–Present
- Total Appearances: 30
- Total Goals: 2
France Football Team
- Career: 2016–Present
- Total Appearances: 56
- Total Goals: 2
Achievements
Leicester City
- 1x Premier League
Chelsea
- 1x Premier League
- 1x FA Cup
- 1x UEFA Champions League
- 1x UEFA Europa League
- 1x UEFA Super Cup
- 1x FIFA Club World Cup
France
- 1x FIFA World Cup
- 1x UEFA Nations League
Individual
- 2x PFA Team of the Year
- 2x ESM Team of the Year
- 1x Leicester City Players' Player of the Year
- 3x L'Équipe Team of the Year
- 1x PFA Players' Player of the Year
- 1x Premier League Player of the Season
- 1x FWA Footballer of the Year
- 1x Chelsea Players' Player of the Year
- 1x Chelsea Player of the Year
- 2x UNFP Best French Player Playing Abroad
- 1x French Player of the Year
- 2x FIFA FIFPro World11
- 1x UEFA Team of the Year
- 1x UEFA Europa League Squad of the Season
- 1x UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season
- 1x UEFA Champions League Midfielder of the Season
Orders
- 1x Knight of the Legion of Honour
Celebrating
Il Divin Codino
Football
May 09' 2025
Celebrating Humility & Discipline Roberto Baggio.
Roberto Baggio was born on 18 February 1967 in Caldogno, a small town in northern Italy. Raised in a humble family of eight children, Baggio’s parents, Matilde and Fiorindo Baggio, supported their son’s passion for football from an early age. His father, a keen amateur footballer himself, noticed Roberto’s talent and dedication even before he turned ten. But none of them could foresee the rollercoaster path that awaited him. At the age of 18, while playing for Vicenza, Baggio suffered a devastating anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury—an injury so severe that doctors initially believed he might never walk again, let alone play professional football. The year was 1985, and sports medicine wasn’t nearly as advanced. He underwent two major surgeries and had 220 stitches in his knee. But Baggio refused to let his dream die. This is where his incredible resilience started to shine. As part of his recovery, Baggio turned to Buddhism, which helped him not only deal with the physical pain but also the emotional turmoil of being sidelined just as his career was taking off. His mental strength became his greatest weapon. Coaches, doctors, and spiritual guides supported his return, but it was Baggio’s unyielding spirit that drove the comeback. Despite lingering injuries throughout his career, Baggio continued to excel, eventually joining Fiorentina, where he became a cult hero. He later played for Juventus, AC Milan, and Inter Milan, among others. But his crowning achievement—and heartbreak—came during the 1994 FIFA World Cup. Baggio carried Italy to the final, scoring five crucial goals. But in the final against Brazil, he missed the decisive penalty in the shootout. That moment could’ve broken anyone. But Baggio took it with grace, saying, “Only those who have the courage to take a penalty miss them.” Baggio’s humility and integrity won him admiration worldwide. He didn't seek excuses. Instead, he kept playing, inspiring teammates and fans. In 2004, Pelé included Baggio in FIFA's list of the 125 Greatest Living Footballers, recognizing his immense impact on the game. What sets him apart isn't just skill—it's his character, forged through pain. Throughout his journey, Baggio credited several figures for shaping his resilience—his father, who instilled discipline; his coaches, who believed in him despite the odds; and his Buddhist mentor, who taught him to find inner peace. These supporters didn’t shield him from struggle—they helped him navigate through it. After retiring in 2004, Baggio stayed largely out of the limelight, embracing a quiet life with his wife Andreina Fabbi and their children. He briefly served as head of Italy's technical sector but preferred the simplicity of country life, often seen tending to his farm or supporting local youth projects. In recent years, he’s become a symbol of silent leadership—a reminder that greatness doesn’t always need a spotlight. In 2023, Roberto Baggio featured in Netflix's Italian biopic “Il Divin Codino” (The Divine Ponytail), rekindling global admiration for his incredible journey. The film brought new fans into the fold and reminded older ones why Baggio remains a timeless figure in world football. Roberto Baggio's story is not just about goals, trophies, or missed penalties—it's about enduring faith, discipline, and humility. It’s a message to every young athlete: setbacks don’t define you, your response does.
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Celebrating
Kean
Football
May 08' 2025
Celebrating Talent & Perseverance Bioty Moise Kean.
Born on February 28, 2000, in Vercelli, Italy, Bioty Moise Kean grew up in difficult circumstances. His parents were immigrants from Ivory Coast—his mother Isabelle left his father early in Moise’s childhood, raising him and his brothers alone. The family struggled with finances, often relying on social services and temporary shelters to get by. Yet amidst the uncertainty, young Kean developed a passion for football that would become his refuge. Isabelle, a woman of fierce resilience, did everything she could to support her son’s dream. Even when there was no money for football boots or travel expenses, she stood behind Moise’s aspirations. Her sacrifices became the emotional bedrock of his ambition. She would walk him to training, work multiple jobs, and constantly remind him, “Your legs will carry you far.” Moise’s talent was undeniable. At just 10 years old, he joined Torino’s youth academy, and soon after, Juventus recognized his raw power and potential. He became the youngest player to debut for Juve in Serie A at age 16. But rapid success came with unique pressures—racial abuse, media scrutiny, and immense expectations weighed heavily on his young shoulders. One of the lowest moments of Kean’s career came in 2019 while playing for Juventus against Cagliari. After scoring, he was subjected to racist chants from sections of the crowd. When he calmly raised his arms in response, he was criticized by some—including then teammate Leonardo Bonucci. But Moise didn’t break. He responded with dignity, gaining global support from fans, players, and anti-racism advocates. This episode became a turning point in his maturity and resolve. Throughout his career, Kean has been fortunate to have key mentors. At Juventus, Gianluigi Buffon often acted as a guardian figure, reminding him of professionalism and composure. At Paris Saint-Germain, where he went on loan, Neymar and Mbappé welcomed him warmly, helping him regain confidence after a turbulent period at Everton. Their belief in him made a crucial difference. Representing Italy at youth and senior levels, Moise Kean felt both pressure and pride. He became the first player born in the 2000s to score for Italy. He carries not just his own aspirations, but the hope of a more diverse and inclusive Azzurri. His presence is a symbol of a new Italy—talented, resilient, and multicultural. Kean’s career hasn’t been without stumbles. Disciplinary issues and inconsistent form saw him criticized by clubs and fans. But recent seasons show a more focused player. He has publicly acknowledged his past mistakes and sought support from psychologists and mentors. His evolution is ongoing, and it’s driven by the desire to make his family and country proud. After spells in England and France, Kean returned to Juventus with renewed determination. The 2023–24 season saw him score crucial goals, regaining his spot in the squad and becoming a reliable forward. His fitness, mindset, and tactical intelligence have improved. He’s no longer the hot prospect—he’s now the experienced young leader. Today, Moise Kean uses his platform to inspire young athletes from underrepresented backgrounds. He regularly speaks about the importance of mental strength, education, and resilience. In a world where many gifted players are left behind due to circumstance, Kean stands as proof that talent + perseverance = destiny. Moise Kean’s story isn’t finished—it’s still unfolding. But his journey so far is a masterclass in bouncing back. He reminds us that even when your beginnings are humble and your path is rough, with the right guidance, grit, and belief, you can become the person the world never saw coming.
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Celebrating
Lookman
Football
May 07' 2025
Celebrating Faith & Resilience Ademola Lookman.
Born on October 20, 1997, in Wandsworth, London, Ademola Olajade Alade Aylola Lookman was the child of Nigerian parents who moved to the UK in search of a better life. Raised in a modest household, his parents instilled in him a deep respect for education, discipline, and perseverance. But for Lookman, football was more than just a game—it was a lifeline. As a child, Lookman would juggle his schoolbooks and a football, sometimes practicing alone at local parks when academies overlooked him. His early teenage years were filled with rejection. Many top football academies in England didn’t see the "it" factor in him. The rejections could have broken him, but Lookman kept going—fuelled by sheer belief and an unwavering work ethic. His break came at Charlton Athletic, a club that took a chance on him when he was just 16. He balanced football and studies, earning excellent academic results while training intensely. Charlton's coaches were amazed at his pace, technical control, and hunger. This period marked his first step away from obscurity. By 2015, his senior debut at Charlton was turning heads. Everton came calling in 2017, signing him for a reported £11 million. The move was exciting, but with it came immense pressure. He faced inconsistent game time and had to prove himself again—especially in a system that didn’t always play to his strengths. Lookman’s time at Everton was a mental battle. But he didn’t isolate himself. Support came in the form of mentors, including senior teammates and coaches who urged him to explore loan moves for experience. That led to RB Leipzig, where he impressed instantly—scoring a debut winner and regaining his confidence. Switching national allegiances to Nigeria in 2022 was a turning point. Though born in England, Lookman proudly embraced his roots. He found a deeper sense of purpose wearing the green and white jersey. With the Nigerian team, he played not just for glory, but for identity, family, and the dreams of young African children. In 2023–24, playing for Atalanta in Serie A, Lookman began to shine consistently. His recent UEFA Europa League final heroics in May 2024, where he scored a historic hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen, stunned the world. It was the first-ever hat-trick in a Europa League final, making Lookman a continental icon overnight. Despite the fame, Lookman remains grounded. He credits his parents, youth coaches at Charlton, and mentors across Europe for his evolution. From playing street football in South London to becoming a symbol of hope for two nations—his is a story of resilience, faith, and grit. Today, Ademola Lookman is more than a player—he’s a beacon for every young athlete who’s ever been doubted, every immigrant family that started from scratch, and every child with a dream too big for their circumstances.
