Idrissa Gueye Everton
Iliman Ndiaye has been a standout performer in the Premier League this season, scoring four goals and showcasing his flair on the right side of David Moyes’ attack. His Everton and Senegal teammate, Idrissa Gueye, believes that Ndiaye’s talent could elevate him to the pinnacle of football success, potentially earning the prestigious Ballon d’Or, an accolade once dominated by Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Notably, George Weah remains the only African player to have won the award.
Idrissa Gueye said: “I train with him every day so I see his quality every day and I can see what he is capable of. He just needs to believe in himself, keep working hard and have high expectations of himself. I told him when he first arrived here that he can be the next African Ballon d’Or winner, because he has the quality, he has the technique, he has the skills and everything.”
Gueye continued: “He’s a humble guy. A very, very good guy. He’s not shy – he likes to play and joke with everyone. Nobody ever has a problem with him because he is humble and always keeps working hard.”
Ndiaye’s remarkable solo goal against Tottenham Hotspur marked a significant moment in Everton’s season, securing Moyes’ first victory in his second tenure as manager. Despite being repositioned to the right flank, Ndiaye has continued to impress, with his skillful play creating numerous opportunities for his teammates, including a memorable performance against Manchester City.
David Moyes said: “I wondered when I came in how he was going to be, would he add goals to what we had because maybe if your nines aren’t getting them, you’re saying where else are we getting the goals? So, I have to say, when I first came I thought: ‘Is Ili going to get us enough goals?’ But he has and he’s got us important goals and important assists but I actually think he’s got better.”
While Ndiaye’s performances have attracted interest, Moyes remains composed about his future at Everton. However, the impending Africa Cup of Nations, where both Ndiaye and Gueye will represent Senegal, poses a challenge for the club. Moyes is currently strategizing on how to manage the team’s dynamics during their absence in December and January.
Moyes added: “I generally think that he’s improved greatly. He is on a long contract here so we’ve got no worries about that.”
With his current trajectory, Ndiaye is not only a key player for Everton but also a potential future star on the global stage, with aspirations of joining the ranks of Africa’s footballing elite.
About The Author
