Fourteen-year-old Mwanje Ethan Nathan from Najjemba, Uganda had an unforgettable experience with Arsenal midfielder, Declan Rice after they spoke over a video call, Softfootball reports.
Nathan, who loves football and supports Arsenal said the call made him so happy he almost cried. The heartwarming video was shared on Arsenal’s official X handle with the caption:
Connecting north London to Najjemba. Declan Rice reached out to surprise 14-year-old supporter Nathan from Uganda
According to Nathan football gives him energy to overcome difficult memories. He admitted that he liked Declan Rice so much, which is very notable as Rice’s impressive performances on the pitch since August makes it so easy for supporters and even his team to vouch for him.
Nathan asked the player how he discovered his passion for football and Rice said he has always loved football since he started walking and dreamed of becoming a professional player. He hailed his parents who supported and made sure he realized his dream.
What stood out was Rice’s promise to Nathan to meet him in person one day and that he was going to send him an Arsenal shirt signed with the young boy’s name. This was thrilling to Nathan and he couldn’t stop smiling as he thanked Rice.
Just like when he praised his teammate, Martin Zubimendi for his performance on the pitch, it helps fans see how much Rice is committed to inspiring others through small gestures.
A lot of fans around the world got inspired by Rice’s humble act towards Nathan and praised him for taking the time to connect with a young fan very far away. @mrgeorgeonx said,
Football is more than a game, it’s moments like this that show its real power. Declan Rice connecting with a young fan all the way in Uganda is pure class. This is how you inspire the next generation.
@Eopito shared a picture of Ugandan fans who took to the streets to celebrate Arsenal in order to prepare Declan Rice on what to expect when he arrives in the country:
Even a Chelsea fan, @tzar93 couldn’t conceal his admiration,
A home village in Uganda, most probably in Wakiso district, appearing on this channel, is all a loyal football fan could ever ask for. I am a Chelsea fan but excited about this pure love from Rice.
This wonderful connection between Declan Rice and Nathan shows that football can go beyond the pitch to inspire and bring joy to fans across the world.
Watch the video below:
The happy reactions from fans from Uganda and other parts of the world also shows the lasting impact that even the smallest acts of kindness from players can leave in hearts and minds.
