Genoa wing-back Brooke Norton-Cuffy has expressed his pride in playing under former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira, describing the experience as both inspiring and motivating.
The 21-year-old defender, who joined the Serie A club from Arsenal last year, has credited Vieira for showing belief in him and offering consistent support throughout the season.
Vieira, who is of Senegalese heritage, took charge of Genoa last year and has earned praise for his player-first approach.
For Norton-Cuffy, having the chance to work with one of Arsenal’s most iconic figures has added personal meaning to his development.
“My first conversation with him was during a team technical meeting,” Norton-Cuffy recalled in an interview with The Athletic.
“Everyone knew who he was, but he came in shaking everyone’s hand. I had never met him before, but he stopped and said, ‘Are you okay, Brooke? I’ve heard a lot of good things about you.’”
Despite early challenges with playing time, the England youth international said Vieira was always accessible and encouraging.
“I asked to speak with him—with some coaches it’s not possible—but he was more than happy to speak to me,” Norton-Cuffy said.
“He told me what I had to work on, to be patient, that he thought I was a good player and that I would have my chance.”
That faith ultimately paid off, with Norton-Cuffy earning more minutes in the second half of the season.
“He maintained this position and when my opportunity presented itself, I seized it,” he added.
