Ex-footballer Ighedosa presents book on African players’ struggles

Victor Ighedosa (centre) at the book launch. Credit: XC-LENT.

Former NEPA of Lagos star, Victor Ighedosa, has chronicled the struggles of African footballers pursuing careers in Europe in a new book titled ‘MARCUS, An African Boy’s European Dream’, launched in Lagos.

The launch attracted club owner, Adewale Teluwo, who led an array of dignitaries including former Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation, Ambassador Fanny Amun; former Lagos FA chairman, Waidi Akanni; current Lagos FA chairman, Hameed Liamid; and several former internationals.

Ighedosa, who was the first Nigerian professional footballer to play in the Qatari Football League, said the book was dedicated to the memory of his late brother, Marcus, and to young African footballers who could not fulfil their European dream.

“This book is a blend of fiction and non-fiction, inspired by real experiences, real struggles and the realities that many young African footballers encounter in pursuit of their dreams,” he said.

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He explained that many families back home remained unaware of the challenges young footballers face abroad, ranging from culture shock to immigration issues.

“When I first travelled to Europe, I was not prepared for many of the experiences that came with it. I encountered racism for the first time. The culture was completely different from ours.”

“The food, weather, language and even the time difference were all new to me. Issues surrounding immigration, mental health and injuries were also things I had to learn to navigate,” Ighedosa said.

Teluwo launched the book with ₦2m, while Akanni, on behalf of the Lagos Legends, launched it with ₦500,000, among other contributions.