The Spark That Ignited His Career
I get people out of their seats with my playing style,
Iliman Ndiaye says. Everton supporters were indeed on their feet after he scored a potential goal of the season early this month against Sunderland. With speed and control, the midfielder moved past defenders on the right wing before hitting the net with his weaker foot.
Ndiaye’s skill is clear today, but his road to the Premier League was not simple. He credits a grassroots initiative that helps unsigned young players as an important part of his development. It gave him training, match practice, and support at a time when he was without a contract.
Overcoming Rejections
Although Ndiaye has built a strong reputation, his early years were full of challenges. He faced many rejections from clubs, including major teams such as Chelsea and Tottenham. He also came close during a six-week trial with Southampton but did not receive a contract offer.
After several setbacks, he joined Boreham Wood, a fifth-tier side, in 2017. This step began his professional path. Later, he received a trial at Sheffield United and signed with them when he turned 19. While waiting for his chance, he focused on keeping fit and ready.
He continued to play small-sided football to maintain his conditioning. A teammate encouraged him to join a youth initiative that provided regular games and exposure. At first, he was overlooked, but after being invited to play, he impressed with his ability.
Challenges of Football Aspirants
Around 1.5 million young players take part in organised football in England, but only about 180 reach the Premier League. Despite the difficult odds, Ndiaye stayed committed, even when people doubted him. He remembers comments made to his father suggesting he would not become a professional.
I trained constantly and believed in myself,
he says.
You have to trust that hard work will matter in the end. Focus less on the setbacks, and one day, the chance will come.
The youth initiative he joined has helped several aspiring players move into the professional game. It organises showcase matches, works with scouts, and offers training to help young talent prepare for the next step.
A Source of Inspiration
Many young players see Ndiaye as an example. Two of them are Kevar March-McKenzie, 18, and George Edwards, 20. Kevar was rejected after a trial at Coventry at age 16. George spent time in several academies but felt he was overlooked because of his size.
Both took part in showcase games where scouts could watch them play.
Ndiaye is a role model. He is the one who made it,
Kevar says. George adds,
People doubted us because of our size, but Ndiaye’s story gives us hope. He signed his first professional contract at 19. Now look where he is.
The Reality of Academies
Academies remain the most common path to becoming a professional footballer. A study showed that over 11% of top academy graduates in the Premier League go on to play at least 20 league matches.
There is also a growing number of homegrown players earning places in teams across the country. This offers encouragement to those who were not part of academies from a young age.
Ndiaye says his journey shows that a different path is still possible.
Academies give players a clear route, but there are others who take a harder way. You must stay focused, train with the same intensity, and take every opportunity.
He believes that supportive coaching and regular practice helped him stay prepared after facing many rejections.
While he leaves it to others to judge where he ranks among Premier League players, he remains confident in his level.
If the goal against Sunderland did not happen, people might still talk about the move, but scoring makes the difference,
he says.
To him, being a true “baller” means more than tricks.
It is about moving past strong defenders at the highest level. That is real talent.