Arnaut Danjuma participated in a Q&A session about life growing up.
The Premier League games this weekend are part of the No Room For Racism initiative. Arnaut Danjuma participated in a Q&A beforehand to talk about his upbringing and what the phrase “Greatness is everywhere” means to him. The forward also covered the advantages of diversity in our society and identified his inspiration from childhood.
Arnaut, the slogan “Greatness is everywhere” dominates this No Room For Racism window display. What do you think of that assertion, and does it resonate with you?
In my opinion, yes. Diversity is the foundation upon which greatness is built. The stronger become stronger, and the weaker become weaker. Learning from every culture is beneficial.
Obviously, the more diverse a sport is, the more everyone is able to improve, share knowledge, and compete at higher levels.
What is your earliest football recollection from when you were a kid, and what motivated you to play?
My first experience with football. That’s a strange one because my mother used to chastise me for kicking furniture or anything rounded and soft enough to kick, essentially anything that resembled a football. That’s what I can recall.
Did you have a local pitch when you were a child in Lagos? What does football mean to you now and where do you play?
One pitch, not so much. Basically, I would play football on anything that resembled a field. I would play on every square inch of concrete or empty space.
Your cobra celebration has a few ties to your childhood home. Please elaborate on that.
It’s related to a story from when I was younger. I come from a diverse background. I have a lot of mates who like football from different areas and cultures. We all used to come together to play the sport that we all love so much – football.
Back then, a particular friend of mine who we played with was huge. He was a big guy and had the most quality. We always used to call him the ‘Cobra’ because of his levels and the way he used to play. My celebration is a reminder of that, my friends are all still around me and help me in any way. For me, it’s a reminder to show we have come this far and hopefully, we can go further.
In light of the subject for this weekend, who were your heroes back then? Who did you aspire to become?
Ronaldinho was then my idol. I believe he was rather distinctive because of his zeal, his style of football, and the way he used to make people smile. I used to watch each and every clip of him, and I still do. I was meant for him.
What was the toughest challenge you ever faced? I am aware that when you were a child living with your mother, you struggled to find housing.
I probably wouldn’t describe that as tough anymore, though. It was difficult at the time, but as you become older, you begin to realize that difficulties also bring ease. In the end, it might be better for you if your upbringing was more difficult.
You can learn so many things through adversity, including tricks, hints, and lessons. There will be relief at the end of the difficult period. Any person needs to learn those things.
You might find it difficult to acknowledge it, but you play professional football for Everton in the Premier League. That accomplishment is remarkable. What do you attribute that to?
Yes, I do my best to maintain my modesty, but part of it has to do with my loyal Muslim faith. I also have faith in the afterlife. Without that, I wouldn’t be who I am. In addition, I strive to work hard and give it my all in whatever I do.
Overall, I believe that my background, which I previously hinted at, has shaped who I am now. I firmly think that adversity is the foundation of greatness.
Finally, what future aspirations and objectives do you have?
It’s difficult to respond. I strive for the best while keeping realistic expectations in mind.
However, my immediate aspirations are to remain loyal to Everton and play a key role in the club’s overall objectives. Give the fans what they want, demonstrate my talent, and truly establish my worth in the Premier League.
