James Olufade, the seasoned defender of Al Shabab Club, shares insights into his tumultuous yet inspiring journey back to prominence in the footballing world.
Olufade, whose career endured setbacks with the termination of his contract at Manama and his absence from the national team, reflects on the highs and lows that shaped his path to resurgence.
Discussing his team’s recent Federation Cup final loss, Olufade maintains a pragmatic outlook, acknowledging the disappointment while emphasizing the resilience needed to move forward. “We did everything we could, without success… We accept and move forward,” he remarks.
Despite the setback, Olufade underscores the significance of the cup run, highlighting its potential to galvanize his team’s performance in the league.
“If we had won this cup, it would have meant a lot to me,” he shares, emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum in the ongoing season.
On a personal level, Olufade reflects on his improved form and playing time, expressing contentment while acknowledging the room for further growth.
“I won’t say that I’m very satisfied, because I still need to do a lot more… But for now, I’m happy with what I’m doing,” he asserts.
Recalling the challenging period following his departure from Manama, Olufade opens up about the mental fortitude required to navigate uncertainty and rebuild his career.
“I accepted… I continued to work hard, because for me, it is only through work that I can achieve my goals,” he reflects.
Throughout his trials, Olufade acknowledges the unwavering support of his family, friends, and teammates, crediting their encouragement for helping him persevere during tough times.
Looking ahead, Olufade remains steadfast in his belief in the power of hard work and determination. “I believe in my work, I believe in everything I do… I will continue to work and perform well… one day I will return to the selection,” he affirms, highlighting his unwavering commitment to his craft.
Despite the challenges he has faced, Olufade remains optimistic about the future of Togolese football, endorsing the progress made under the current coaching regime.
“What makes me proud is that things are moving forward,” he asserts, echoing his faith in the national team’s potential for success.
In sharing his story, Olufade offers a message of hope and resilience to aspiring young footballers, emphasizing the importance of hard work, perseverance, and unwavering belief in one’s abilities.
As he continues his journey on and off the pitch, James Olufade serves as a testament to the transformative power of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
