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How this Premier League footballer earned new fans in Dubai

Everton midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure is currently enjoying the summer break in Dubai

Published: Fri 12 Jul 2024, 7:55 AM

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Abdoulaye Doucoure with an aspiring footballer. — Supplied photo

Abdoulaye Doucoure with an aspiring footballer. — Supplied photo

Enthusiastic young football players were pleasantly surprised when international soccer star Abdoulaye Doucoure joined them during a training session at Greenfield International School in Dubai.

The Everton FC midfielder, currently enjoying his summer break in the UAE, looked on as players from Taaleem’s TC United program brushed up their skill sets for the Helsinki Cup in Europe.


"It was great to drop in on the youngsters and I had a great time,” said the Malian, expressing his delight “I was really impressed by their skills and wish Taaleem every success going forward."

Doucoure's genuine passion for the sport was evident as he answered questions, provided insights, and stayed for the entire session, personally interacting with each student.

It was a gesture that earned Doucoure a lot of new fans in Dubai.

This impromptu visit by the Premier League star follows the club's successful International Soccer Schools Programme in the Middle East last summer, where over 200 young players participated in a two-week camp in the UAE. It is clear that Doucoure's commitment to nurturing young talent and spreading the love for football is in line with Dubai's forward-thinking vision.

Vinnie Burden, the Program Lead of Taaleem TC United, praised Doucoure for his visit, describing it as an inspirational moment for everyone involved.

“It was a truly memorable experience for everyone when Abdoulaye joined us to watch us train and prepare for this summer’s Helsinki Cup,” said Burden. “His visit was more than just an appearance – it was an inspiration,”

“His passion for the beautiful game shone through while he answered all our players' questions and offered invaluable insights and advice. Not only that, but his insistence on staying for the whole session, to meet and watch each student play, made everyone involved feel seen and encouraged.”

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