Mayowa Adeshina is a devoted Arsenal fan who took a break from work at the barbershop to watch a game with his friends. Many West Africans, particularly Nigerians, are passionate about European soccer, with the Premier League being especially popular. Mr. Adeshina’s love for Arsenal began in the late 1990s when Nigerian cable channels started broadcasting the league. His older brother guided him to support Arsenal, a team that featured Nigerian star Nwankwo Kanu at the time.
Arsenal’s academy has a strong representation of English players with Nigerian heritage, further solidifying Mr. Adeshina’s connection to the team. He feels a deep bond with rising star Bukayo Saka, who grew up in a Nigerian family in London. The shared Yoruba background between Saka and Mr. Adeshina adds another layer of personal connection to the team. Despite the seriousness with which he supports Arsenal, Mr. Adeshina took a break from work to watch a crucial game against Tottenham Hotspur with his friends.
On game days, dedicated fans like Mr. Adeshina gather at viewing centers in Nigeria to watch European soccer matches. These venues are equipped with screens, benches, wires, and canopies to create a comfortable viewing experience for patrons. The atmosphere is electric as fans of various teams come together to support their favorite players and clubs. For Mr. Adeshina, watching Arsenal play is a way to connect with his friends and share the thrill of the game.
While Mr. Adeshina should have been at work, his boss understands his passion for soccer and allows him to take a break to watch important matches. The relationship between employers and employees in Nigeria often accommodates the love of the game, with many businesses understanding the cultural significance of European soccer to their employees. Despite the resignation of missing work, the joy and camaraderie that Mr. Adeshina experiences while cheering on Arsenal make it a worthwhile sacrifice.
The influence of European soccer, particularly the Premier League, extends beyond the sport itself in West Africa. It serves as a unifying force for communities, bringing people together to support their favorite teams and players. The appeal of clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Paris St.-Germain in the region is strong, but nothing compares to the widespread popularity of the Premier League in Nigeria. For fans like Mr. Adeshina, watching Arsenal play is not just a hobby but a way of life that fosters a sense of belonging and shared heritage among supporters.
