Football has been a major player in the activities of nations and individuals for a long time.
In this sport, we witness remarkable instances of diversity and inclusion. One such example is when players from various countries decide to represent the nations they or their parents have become citizens of rather than their birth countries.
illustrating the complexity and significance of these choices within the realm of the beautiful game. It is encouraging to observe that a player’s origins do not hinder their talent and dedication.
As the sport evolves and becomes even more globalised (many would say in a good way), it also drives more funds into developing countries.
African countries are experiencing increased interest in their football leagues – this could be evident by media coverage, brand sponsorships, football academies flourishing and betting companies’ showing interest. If you’re a betting fan, you can check out the GSB registration guide to see how it works in Uganda for example.
With all that being said, it’s intriguing to consider prominent European football stars who might have opted to play for their countries of birth. Among many possibilities, three standout players come to mind:
Kylian Mbappe (Cameroon)
Mbappe is currently the world’s most expensive player as well as the highest-rated player in the world. His ability to play the game of football is unmatched at the moment.
Mbappe is only 24 years old and has already surpassed all expectations for a player his age. Mbappe was born to Fayza Lamari (Algeria) and Wilfred Mbappe (Cameroon), who immigrated to France and became a football coach at a local club called AS Bundy.
Mbappe spent his entire life in France, but he could have still chosen to play for Cameroon. No one can really fault the player for not committing to his father’s country, considering the issues that plague African football.
Playing for France has already allowed him to lift the much-coveted FIFA World Cup in 2018 and taste a second trip to the World Cup Finals. Add one golden boot too.
Mbappe still carries Cameroon in his heart, of course. He recently visited the country of his origin and has participated in significant humanitarian projects in Cameroon and all of Africa.
Bukayo Saka (Nigeria)
The Arsenal forward who plays for the English National team is one of the highest-rated wingers in the world.
He was named the best right winger by ESPN earlier in the year following an incredible season by his club and was one of the key components in the success of Arsenal.
Bukayo Saka was born to Nigerian parents Adenike and Yomi Saka, who migrated to the UK for work.
It didn’t take long for the good people at Arsenal to realize what a talent he was, he joined the academy at just six years, and the rest is history.
Saka opted to play for England despite his father being a former Nigerian International. Regardless of the country he plays for, Saka still holds Nigeria in high esteem. He recently paid for surgeries for 120 children in Nigeria and has partnered with many humanitarian efforts to help children in the country of his birth.
Saka explained that he picked the 3 Lions because of the manager Gareth Southgate and how he transformed the English team.
Nigeria would have been superb with him around, though.
Romelu Lukaku (DR Congo)
Not many people know this, but Lukaku was born to Congolese parents. His father played for the Zaire national team, but he spent most of his career in Antwerp, where Lukaku was born.
Lukaku was the main striker in Belgian football’s newly defunct golden generation. He was one of the main reasons the Belgium side recorded so many successes: he contributed 75 goals to the Red Devils.
Wrap Up
With the exceptional improvement in African football, more players in the diaspora are choosing to represent their country of origin. However, there is still a long way to go.
