Nordin Amrabat draws on Drogba example in bid to lift FC Utrecht
The 39-year-old is trying to set the standard in training as Utrecht seek to recover from a difficult start to their Eredivisie campaign.
Nordin Amrabat says Didier Drogba’s relentless work ethic continues to inspire him as he attempts to help FC Utrecht reverse their poor Eredivisie form. Utrecht have won only one of their opening seven league matches, but Amrabat insists the squad are training intensely every day.
Now 39, Amrabat believes his own effort can provide an example for the younger players. He told VI that he still tries to lead from the front during training and hopes emerging professionals will find that commitment inspiring.
Amrabat learned the value of that approach while playing alongside Drogba at Galatasaray. The Ivorian was 35 at the time and had already won the Champions League before spending a lucrative period in China, yet Amrabat recalled that he continued to work exceptionally hard each day. “That really opened my eyes,” Amrabat told VI.
Their connection also extended beyond regular team sessions. Amrabat said Drogba took him under his wing, occasionally invited him to his home for meals and asked him to stay behind after training to deliver extra crosses. Those voluntary details left a lasting impression on the then 24-year-old, who decided that he wanted to follow the same example. He is now seeking to pass that mentality on at Utrecht as the club works to improve its results.
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- 'Didier Drogba heeft echt mijn ogen geopend'— VI Nederlands Elftal
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