As we celebrate diversity during No Room during Racism, Everton forward explains his background and Muslim religion.
Arnaut Danjuma credits his success to the persistent support of loved ones, as well as a deep religious belief, which enabled him overcome a rough upbringing and become a Premier League player.
The 26-year-old, who is on loan from Villarreal for the season, was born in Nigeria to a Dutch father and a Nigerian mother before being reared in the Netherlands – and after his parents’ divorce, he was homeless and spent time in foster care.
His journey to the Premier League exemplifies the concept that excellence can be found everywhere, with 121 different countries represented in the competition since 1992.
“I think my greatness is built on knowing that I’ll be satisfied because of what I’ve been through, and because of what I’ve been through, I’ve been able to work hard every day,” Danjuma says in the above video, which celebrates the Premier League’s diversity as part of the No Room For Racism initiative.
“I’ve been through a lot. In my life, I have never given up. My loved ones have always been there for me. My family and friends have always been there for me. Because I am a faithful Muslim, I will always offer full credit and reverence to the Most High.
“I’m a firm believer in ‘with difficulty comes ease,’ and I believe that if you look at the best athletes, the most successful people in the world, every single one of them has gone through hardship.” And I believe that’s where my greatness comes from.”
Danjuma has stated that his “cobra” goal celebration arose from the diversity he experienced as a child.
“I’ve got a lot of mates obviously who are into football as well, and we are all from different areas and different cultures,” he said.
“I had a special acquaintance with whom I used to play football when I was younger. We used to call him a cobra because he used to play football in the manner of a snake. So, for me, my celebration serves as a reminder that we’re still together to this day.”
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