Footballers around the world have come to recognize the value of education, not only as a means of self-development but also as a safety net for life beyond the game. Many African footballers have embraced the importance of education, earning degrees alongside their football careers. Their academic achievements often provide them with better decision-making skills on and off the pitch, while also offering opportunities after they hang up their boots. Here’s a look at seven African footballers who have excelled both in the classroom and on the football field.
7. Gabriel Nyoni
Zimbabwean winger Gabriel Nyoni is one of the few African footballers who has successfully balanced academics and football. In 2016, while playing for Highlanders in Zimbabwe, Nyoni completed a degree in marketing. The skills he acquired helped him in his professional journey, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when he used social media to promote himself, securing a contract with South African club Cape Umoya FC.
6. Kelechi Iheanacho
Nigerian forward Kelechi Iheanacho has a degree in Business Marketing. The striker, currently on loan at Middlesbrough from Sevilla, sought to deepen his understanding of the commercial aspects of football to complement his on-field abilities. Iheanacho’s degree provides him with valuable insight into managing his finances and business dealings, both during and after his football career.
5. Taiwo Awoniyi
Another Nigerian on the list is Taiwo Awoniyi, who plays for Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. Awoniyi completed a degree in Business Management from Buckinghamshire New University in September 2022, shortly after joining the club. His academic background in management complements his sporting career, setting him up for future success off the pitch.
4. Michael Olunga
Kenyan international Michael Olunga is known for his impressive football skills, but he also stands out for his academic achievements. Olunga holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Geospatial Engineering from the Technical University of Kenya. This degree earned him the nickname “Engineer.” Geospatial Engineering involves the use of technology in mapping, surveying, and managing spatial data, skills that Olunga plans to use after retiring from football, especially in urban planning and infrastructure development.
3. Michelle Alozie
Michelle Alozie, a standout player for the Nigerian women’s national team, has made a name for herself not only in football but also in the field of science. Alozie graduated from Yale University with a degree in Molecular Biology. Alongside her football career, she works as a cancer research technician at Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston. Known for her talent on the pitch and her dedication to medicine, Alozie is an excellent example of a footballer who successfully balances academics and athletics.
2. Percy Tau
South African forward Percy Tau is another player who has embraced the power of education. Tau holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of South Africa (UNISA). His academic background has complemented his football career, helping him navigate the commercial side of the sport. After a successful stint in Europe, Tau returned to Africa, where he joined Al Ahly in Egypt. He later moved to Qatar SC, where he enjoys a lucrative contract, demonstrating how his education has played a part in his financial success.
1. Wilfred Ndidi
Leading the list is Nigerian midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, who plays for Leicester City in the Premier League. Ndidi balanced his football career with his studies, earning a degree in Business and Management from De Montfort University in Leicester, UK. He enrolled in the course in 2019 and graduated in 2022, proving that it is possible to manage both academics and professional sports. Ndidi’s determination to complete his degree while playing at the highest level serves as an inspiration to many aspiring footballers.
These African footballers show that it’s possible to pursue higher education while excelling in professional sports. Their academic achievements not only serve as a safety net for life after football but also enhance their decision-making and business acumen during their careers. These players are proving that success off the field is just as important as success on it.
