Ebrima Darboe, hailing from Bakoteh in Gambia, recently shared the remarkable story of his journey to professional football, recounting the challenges and triumphs that have defined his career thus far.
At the tender age of 14, Darboe embarked on a life-changing odyssey from his homeland to Italy, traversing through Libya after a grueling six-month clandestine journey.
Despite the arduous path, Darboe found solace and purpose upon his arrival in Italy, where he was introduced to the world of football through the Young Rieti academy.
In a candid interview with Il Secolo XIX, the defensive midfielder opened up about the hardships he faced during his early days in Italy, crediting football for instilling him with resilience and fortitude.
Reflecting on his journey, Darboe expressed gratitude towards his uncle, the sole supporter who accompanied him on his arduous voyage.
“I am proud to be Gambian and I thank Italy. Football gave me strength,” Darboe remarked. “The only one who believed in me was my uncle, I left with him.”
Darboe’s ascent through the ranks of Italian football has been marked by determination and perseverance. After honing his skills with AS Roma’s youth academy, Darboe made his breakthrough into the Serie A side in 2018.
Subsequently, he ventured to Austrian club LASK before securing a loan move to Sampdoria in Serie B, where he currently plies his trade until 2024.
Despite his temporary stint away from Roma, Darboe remains a prized asset for the club, with his contract extending until 2026 and his market value estimated at €1 million.
His journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of football and the resilience of the human spirit in overcoming adversity.
As Darboe continues to make strides in his professional career, his remarkable journey stands as an inspiration to aspiring footballers worldwide, underscoring the importance of perseverance, self-belief, and unwavering determination in the pursuit of one’s dreams.
