- Didier Drogba almost pursued a career in accounting, a path that makes his rise to stardom even more remarkable
- Drogba made history by becoming the first African player to reach a milestone in the Premier League that no one else had achieved before
- Drogba once used his voice and influence to play a key role in urging peace during a civil conflict in his homeland
Didier Drogba is celebrated as one of Chelsea and Africa’s greatest footballers, renowned for his powerful presence on the pitch and his leadership off it.
The legendary striker notched up 164 goals and provided 82 assists across 381 matches in all competitions for the Blues, including 104 strikes and 59 assists in the Premier League.
Source: Getty Images
Drogba had registered 32 goals in 65 games for Olympique Marseille before he joined the Chelsea under Jose Mourinho, signing a deal in July 2004 for a reported £24 million, according to Sky Sports.
According to Transfermarkt, the former Ivory Coast national team captain also tallied 20 goals and 13 assists in 53 games for Galatasary duing a brief stint in Turkey.
While many are familiar with his iconic goals and achievements, here are five lesser-known aspects of his life and career that add depth to his legacy.
1. A late bloomer in professional football
The Chelsea icon didn’t start his professional football journey until the age of 21. He began his career at Le Mans in France, having spent his youth playing in various French clubs. This late start makes his rapid rise to football stardom even more remarkable.
Source: Getty Images
2. Drogba’s brief stint in accounting
Before fully committing to football, Didier Drogba briefly studied accounting. This academic background is a surprising contrast to his later career on the pitch.
3. First African to score 100 EPL goals
In March 2012, Drogba became the first African player to score 100 Premier League goals, achieving this milestone in a match against Stoke City.
4. Key figure in ending Ivorian civil war
During the Ivorian civil war, Drogba made a powerful appeal to the warring factions, urging them to lay down their arms. His impassioned plea contributed to a ceasefire, showcasing his influence beyond football.
5. Offered to play for France
Although Drogba was born in Ivory Coast, he moved to France at a young age and could have represented the French national team. However, he chose to play for Ivory Coast, emphasizing his strong connection to his homeland.
Didier Drogba’s journey from a latecomer to football to a global icon is a testament to his talent, resilience, and commitment. These lesser-known aspects of his life further enrich the story of a man who transcended the sport to become a symbol of family, hope and unity.
Drogba names greatest footballers of all-time
In a previous feature, YEN.com.gh highlighted Didier Drogba’s personal choices for the greatest footballers of all time, revealing Diego Maradona as his top pick alongside two other legendary names.
Meanwhile, Drogba’s caused a stir when he omitted the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi from his picks.
Source: YEN.com.gh
Source: Yen.com.gh
