The way I play football gets people off their seats, says Iliman Ndiaye.
Everton fans were certainly on their feet when the midfielder netted a stunning goal against Sunderland earlier this month, displaying his impressive skills on the field.
The Senegalese winger's talent is now recognized, but his journey to a Premier League starting spot was not straightforward. Ndiaye credits Rising Ballers, a media brand that highlights unsigned football talent through grassroots initiatives, for giving him the opportunity to showcase his skills.
The things I was doing there, I wasn't doing at other clubs. It helped me stay fit and enjoy football more, especially when you don't have a club, he explains.
His path to success was paved with challenges, facing rejection from clubs like Chelsea and Tottenham. After a six-week trial with Southampton ended in disappointment, he found himself signed by Boreham Wood in 2017, followed by a stint at Sheffield United.
During this transitional phase, Rising Ballers played a crucial role in maintaining his form and confidence. He participated in five-a-side matches, which eventually caught the attention of the community.
They didn't know who I was at first, but once I played for them, that’s when they recognized my skill, Ndiaye recalls.
As a professional footballer, he serves as a beacon of hope for young players who are not part of traditional academy systems. Statistics show that only a small fraction of youth football players reach the Premier League, but Ndiaye's story exemplifies the possibility of success against the odds.
Current aspiring players like Kevar March-Mckenzie and George Edwards look up to Ndiaye. Despite their setbacks in trials at various clubs, they participate in Rising Ballers' showcase games, inspired by Ndiaye's journey to professional football.
Ndiaye himself emphasizes the importance of resilience: Don't focus on the rejection and one day your luck is going to come through. More than 15 players represented by Rising Ballers have signed with professional clubs, underscoring the effectiveness of this grassroots talent initiative.
The power of social media also plays a significant role in highlighting players like Ndiaye, giving grassroots players a platform to showcase their skills to a wider audience.
