"I love diamonds" - Footballer Ifeanyi Mathew reveals obsession

Posted : 11 June 2023

We went up-close-and-personal during an exclusive and insightful interview conducted by ASN (African Sports Network) with the prominent Nigerian footballer, Ifeanyi Mathew, and in a moment of honesty, he revealed his obsession for diamonds.

In addition to this open confession, Ifeanyi took us through his footballing journey, sharing his experinces from the time he developed the passion for the sport.

Ifeanyi Mathew, a talented Nigerian professional footballer, was born on January 20, 1997, in Kano state, Nigeria.

Known for his exceptional skills and versatility on the field, Ifeanyi currently represents FC Zürich, a renowned Norwegian Swiss Super League club.

Ifeanyi's journey in the world of football began in 2006 when he joined the youth academy of Kano Pillars, one of the prominent football clubs in Nigeria.

His remarkable performances and dedication caught the attention of scouts and coaches, propelling him towards a promising career.

During his time with Kano Pillars, Ifeanyi honed his skills and showcased his potential as a rising star in Nigerian football.

In 2016, Ifeanyi made a significant move in his career and signed with Lillestrøm, a Norwegian football club competing in the top-tier league.

His transition to European football proved to be successful, as he quickly adapted to the higher level of competition and displayed his exceptional talent on the pitch.

With Lillestrøm, Ifeanyi became a key player in the team's midfield, contributing with his creativity, technical abilities, and tactical awareness.

Ifeanyi's consistent performances and impressive achievements did not go unnoticed, attracting attention from various clubs around Europe.

In early 2023, FC Zürich, a prestigious Swiss Super League club, recognized his potential and secured his services by offering him a lucrative contract.

This move marked a significant milestone in Ifeanyi's career, as he joined a club with a rich history and a passionate fan base.

Upon joining FC Zürich, Ifeanyi was embraced by the team and the supporters, who eagerly awaited his contributions on the field, and as a versatile midfielder, he brings a blend of technical prowess, vision, and agility to the team.

Off the field, Ifeanyi's inspiring journey serves as a source of motivation for aspiring footballers, particularly in Nigeria, where he is regarded as a role model for young talents.

As Ifeanyi Mathew's career unfolds, football enthusiasts eagerly anticipate witnessing his continued growth and accomplishments both with FC Zürich and on the international stage, as he aims to represent his country at the highest level.

During the course of the captivating interview, Ifeanyi Mathew graciously shared the enthralling tale of how his journey in professional football unfolded, unveiling the remarkable series of events that led him to embrace the beautiful game as his life's calling.

"I started with a local team and then one of the richest men in the area, Kabiru Ali Mazadu, took me to an amateur team. He said I had good potential that could be explored. That's how it all started," Ifeanyi revealed.

With a twinkle in his eye and a smile that spoke volumes, Ifeanyi spoke of his deep admiration for the Ivorian midfielder Yaya Touré, who served as his greatest source of inspiration.

Born in a small village in the Ivory Coast, Touré overcame tremendous odds to become one of the most celebrated footballers of his generation.

Ifeanyi found solace and motivation in the Ivorian's journey, recognizing the parallel struggles they shared as African players aspiring to make their mark on the global stage.

Ifeanyi Mathew, reflecting on his formative years and the indomitable passion that burned within him, revealed how his unwavering love for the game became the driving force behind his decision to pursue a football career abroad.

As Ifeanyi reminisced about his childhood, he vividly described the scenes of his upbringing, where football permeated every facet of his life; from makeshift matches on dusty streets to local tournaments that brought the community together, the game had woven itself into the fabric of his being.

Each moment spent with a ball at his feet only intensified his ardor for the sport, fueling an insatiable hunger to push beyond the boundaries of his hometown and explore the boundless opportunities that awaited him on foreign shores.

When asked what other sporting activity he enjoyed, Ifeanyi boldly declared his love for Handball and UFC, which give him chills, just as much as football.

According to Ifeanyi, the strangest rumour he had heard about himself was the fact that he signed with another football club instead. He said: "That I signed with Bayern Munich."

In a more intimate and introspective segment of the interview, Ifeanyi Mathew shared a touching anecdote that unveiled the sentimental value attached to a particular item in his personal collection—a precious medal he received during his time in Norway, which bore a striking resemblance to a delicate glass cup.

As Ifeanyi delved into the story behind this cherished possession, a wave of nostalgia washed over him.

With a genuine smile gracing his face, he recounted the moment when he was bestowed with this extraordinary memento.

The medal, resembling a glass cup in its intricate design, represented far more than a mere token of achievement; it encapsulated a multitude of emotions, memories, and personal triumphs.

"A medal I received in Norway, looks like a glass cup," he said, with laughter.

One fun fact about Ifeanyi is that he loves to dance and make people laugh; this he openly confessed: "I love to make jokes and love dancing."

When asked what specific milestones he is working to achieve, Ifeanyi said: "I have a lot to achieve, but first I want to win the Switzerland league."

When posed with the question of how he intended to utilize his platform to contribute to the betterment of Nigeria, Ifeanyi Mathew responded with heartfelt enthusiasm, revealing an ambitious endeavor that showcased his unwavering commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering the growth of football in his homeland.

With genuine excitement in his voice, he disclosed his plans to establish an academy dedicated to providing aspiring footballers with the training and resources they need to thrive.

Ifeanyi's vision for the academy was driven by his own experiences and the recognition of the countless challenges young footballers in Nigeria face on their path to success.

With limited access to proper facilities, coaching expertise, and opportunities for exposure, talented individuals often find their dreams hindered by the lack of infrastructure and support systems.

Determined to make a difference and create a pathway for future generations, Ifeanyi set out to construct a world-class academy that would serve as a beacon of hope and empowerment for aspiring footballers across the country.

In describing his vision, Ifeanyi emphasized the academy's holistic approach to player development.

The institution would not only focus on refining technical skills but also prioritize the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of the young athletes.

From state-of-the-art training facilities to personalized coaching sessions, comprehensive fitness programs, and mentorship opportunities, the academy aims to provide a nurturing environment that would shape well-rounded individuals, both on and off the pitch.

"I am building my own academy to impact on the young generation who aspire to be football players, to guide them on the right path to follow," he said.

Ifeanyi Mathew's story exemplifies the impact an individual can have when fueled by passion, determination, and a desire to give back.

Through his own journey, he has become an inspiration and a beacon of hope for aspiring footballers in Nigeria and beyond.

His dedication to personal growth, his admiration for his role models, and his commitment to uplifting others through the establishment of his academy reflect the transformative power of football as a vehicle for positive change.

As Ifeanyi continues to make strides in his career and invest in the next generation, his legacy will extend far beyond the football pitch, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of aspiring athletes and the future of Nigerian football.

"I love diamonds" - Footballer Ifeanyi Mathew reveals obsession

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