“My idol was Nwankwo Kanu” – Ex-Real Madrid forward reveals pride in following Super Eagles legend’s footsteps

Emmanuel Adebayor netted 62 goals across 142 games for Arsenal, a performance that earned him the title of African Player of the Year in 2008.

Former Tottenham forward, Emmanuel Adebayor, has revealed his deep admiration for Super Eagles legend Nwankwo Kanu, Soccernet.ng reports.

Speaking to BBC, former Real Madrid player, his childhood idol, Kanu, who is now his best friend, shared the pride he felt when he joined Arsenal.

Wearing Kanu’s iconic number 25 jersey and using the same locker, Adebayor considers his time with the Gunners a not-to-forget moment in his career.

“My idol was Nwankwo Kanu, so signing for Arsenal, wearing his number 25 jersey, and using the same locker as him was, for me, a huge accomplishment,” said Adebayor. “Today, he is my big brother and best friend; he advises me if I’m doing right or wrong.”

Adebayor’s impressive form with the Gunners in 2008 earned him the title of African Footballer of the Year, which also made him the only Togolese player to win the prestigious award.

“In 2008, I was unplayable. To be recognised as Africa’s best player was huge – it’s something I’ll never forget.” he added.

Despite his successes, Adebayor’s relationship with Arsenal took a downturn after his move to Manchester City, where he famously celebrated a goal against his former club by running the length of the pitch to the Arsenal supporters.

Now retired, Adebayor looks back fondly on his time at Arsenal, with Kanu’s influence a cherished aspect of his journey through European football.

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and an Editor at Soccernet.ng, with a proven track record in conducting interviews with Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, and many others. He has also made a significant impact in breaking transfer news stories. Grounded in video editing, video journalism, social media management, and content strategy, Ayomide brings a wealth of expertise to his work. With a Bachelor's degree in English Language from Adeyemi College of Education and a Master's Degree in School Library and Media Technology from the University of Ibadan, Ayomide is well-prepared to excel in the field.

Share
Published by
Ayomide Oguntimehin

Recent Posts

Galatasaray hit with Victor Osimhen blow as Okan Buruk laments missed chances against Ajax

Nigeria international Victor Osimhen will miss Galatasaray’s first playoff game in the UEFA Europa League… Read More

25 minutes ago

Placeholders? Saudi clubs’ Deja vu tricks with Boniface and Osimhen

Saudi Arabian clubs appear to be repeating a familiar pattern in their pursuit of Nigerian… Read More

1 hour ago

Ajax vs Galatasaray: Victor Osimhen scores again, but toothless Lions lose record in Amsterdam

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen was on target for Galatasaray, but his goal was not… Read More

7 hours ago

Super Eagles call-up? Nathan Tella breaks silence on Chelle’s selection

Super Eagles winger Nathan Tella has expressed his desire to return to the Nigerian national… Read More

13 hours ago

Can Akpom save Van Nistelrooy’s job? Leicester close in on Super Eagles-eligible striker

Leicester City are edging closer to securing the signing of Super Eagles-eligible striker Chuba Akpom… Read More

15 hours ago

Napoli reject first official bid for Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen amid Arsenal and Man United link

Napoli have turned down an initial €65 million bid from Galatasaray for Victor Osimhen, with… Read More

17 hours ago