“I used to skip school to play football when I was in secondary school” – David Nduka

Posted : 01 October 2023

In football, where dreams are forged on the pitch and aspirations are carried through the spirit of the game, emerges a rising talent with boundless potential. Ifeanyi David Nduka, hailing from Lagos, Nigeria, has become a name to reckon with in the football world. Born on December 2, 2003, this 19-year-old sensation stands tall at 1.82 meters, dominating the field as a central midfielder.

Ifeanyi David Nduka, a proud Nigerian citizen, has displayed exceptional prowess on the football field from a young age. His journey into the world of professional football commenced at the tender age of 15, showcasing his innate talent and determination to carve out a niche for himself in the competitive realm of soccer.

Represented by JV SPORTS, Ifeanyi David Nduka's career trajectory took a significant leap when he joined Arsenal Tula, in Russia, on July 5, 2023. The move marked a pivotal moment in his professional journey, propelling him into a new arena of competition. His exceptional skills in the central midfield position and versatility as a defensive midfielder and center-back have earned him recognition and a current market value of €250k.

From FDC Vista to Botev Plovdiv, and eventually to Krasnodar, Nduka's journey illustrates the strides he's made, marked by notable transfers and impressive growth. With each transfer, his influence and skills continued to burgeon, shaping him into the remarkable player we see today.

In the 2023/24 season, Nduka embarked on a loan transfer to Arsenal Tula from FK Krasnodar. This transition saw him make significant strides in his career, contributing to the team and showcasing his prowess in the central midfield position. The move underscored his determination to excel and grow as a player.

Nduka, in an exclusive interview with Africa Sport Network (ASN), shared some of the perks of his career, his wins, as well as his challenges so far, as a Nigerian player in the diaspora.

Speaking about his inspiration, he said his dad wanted him to pursue formal education, but his mum has been supportive of his football career.

“My dad wanted me to go to school and get a corporate job, but I’ve always loved playing football. In fact, I used to skip school to play football when I was in secondary school.

“Apart from my family, I keep pushing myself. I believe I’m my greatest inspiration. I keep striving for the best,” Nduka said.

Nduka added that it has been his dream to play in Europe.

“Before I moved abroad, I joined the national team in Nigeria, but I wasn't selected for major games. Then I came back to my home in Lagos.

“Amid the disappointments, I kept on training, with hopes that I would finally be spotted and given a chance to play in Europe. I was soon selected and brought to Russia.”

About his challenges as a Nigerian in diaspora, Nduka said: “It’s difficult for me sometimes. I don’t really understand the language, so communication is challenging for me. But I’m trying my best to learn.”

Nduka further told ASN that his most memorable time so far in his career was when he made his senior debut in the Russian Premier League, when his club played against Zenith.

Asked about the opportunities his burgeoning career abroad has exposed him to, Nduka reflected on the profound growth he has experienced, both as an athlete and an individual.

Venturing into the international football scene has opened doors to invaluable experiences, allowing him to immerse himself in rich cultures and diverse playing styles.

When inquired about how he manages his relationships and his football career, Nduka mentioned that he believes there is time for everything and everyone.

“For love relationship, it’s boring right now, so I don’t bother with that. For friends, I ghosted some while pursuing my career. But I’ve been able to reconnect with some of them. I am also in close contact with my family. Family is a priority for me.

“I am an introvert, but also fun to be with. I don’t associate with all the paparazzi of social media, but those who are close to me can attest to the fact that I know how to have fun and maintain friendships in my own way.”

While advising aspiring players, Nduka said: “You are not too young to pursue your football career. You don’t have to wait for the older ones to scale first. It’s a level-playing field for everyone.

“Just take whatever you’re doing seriously, if you love it. Also put God first. It's very important,” Nduka added.

As Ifeanyi David Nduka looks ahead to the future, the promising trajectory he's established in his young career leaves no doubt that he will continue to make waves and leave a lasting mark on the sport.

Honouring his home country, Nigeria, with every stride on the field, fans eagerly await the heights this young talent is set to reach in the coming years.

“I used to skip school to play football when I was in secondary school” – David Nduka

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