Noah Fadiga has reassured fans about his health and recovery following a heart attack during a match with La Gantoise on November 10. The 24-year-old Senegalese right-back, who was fitted with a cardiac defibrillator after the incident, expressed confidence in his ability to return to football in the near future.
In an interview with Sporza, Fadiga opened up about the frightening experience, explaining how he felt during and after the incident.
I felt a little dizzy as I walked to the side, then the light went out for a moment. I was convinced it was due to the collision, he recalled.
After a few seconds, I got up. In fact, I felt good and I even said to the coach: ‘Let me get up, everything is fine.
However, it quickly became clear that his condition was more serious than initially thought.
Further tests revealed a lack of blood circulation, which caused him to faint, leading to the decision to implant a defibrillator as a precautionary measure.
It is of course not fun, but I am still here and I am healthy.
I see things in a more positive light,” said Fadiga, adding with a smile, “I am now the safest player who will be on a football pitch.”
Fadiga, who previously played for Stade Brestois, emphasized that his recovery is proceeding as planned, and he is hopeful about his return to action.
I should be able to train again in January,” he stated. “It is of the utmost importance not to force the recovery process.
I don’t have to do much, but I have to take it easy for a few weeks to respect the healing of my heart.
Although he is eager to return to training, Fadiga is focused on taking the necessary steps to ensure a full recovery.
As soon as I get the green light to train, I will do everything in my power to get back between the lines as quickly as possible,” he said. “I am looking forward to it, especially since it is not such a long period.”
Fadiga also drew strength from the experiences of others who have continued their careers after similar health scares, including his father and Christian Eriksen.
There are so many players who have played with a defibrillator.
Just look at Christian Eriksen or my father,” he said. “When you see how my father was able to continue his career and how he approaches life as a person… That’s my certainty. Why would I think negatively if it’s positive?”
With his recovery on track and his spirits high, Fadiga’s story serves as a powerful reminder of resilience, and he remains optimistic about his future on the pitch.
