The Journey of Professional Football Career: Challenges and Reflections

Abstract

The problem of corruption and mismanagement of state resources by governments in Africa has impoverished the continent, throwing many families into daunting challenges. The youth, consequently, is underpowered and unproductive to self-support their own social lives. To accomplish their dreams, some youths turn to social groups through football. This study analyzes the profile of a boy enduring several challenges in search for survival at a tender age. The social activity of football eventually supported the boy’s reintegration in the streets. Relying on social integration theory and interviews, this study exposes how African youths attempt to achieve self-reliance through football in the communities. Findings reveal how the boy’s experiences on the street and in Europe reshaped his livelihood and support for society. Further description of the boy’s lived experience and his socioeconomic contributions to society is outlined.