I tried to play like Zidane in my mind when I was a kid – Thomas Partey

Thomas Partey [L] and Zinedine Zidane

Ghanaian football star Thomas Partey has shared insights into his early football influences, revealing that legendary French midfielder Zinedine Zidane played a significant role in shaping his playing style during his youth. Partey disclosed that he looked up to Zidane as a key figure he aspired to emulate, especially during his formative years in Ghana.

In an interview with Kafui Dey, Partey recalled how young players in Ghana would often adopt nicknames based on international football stars. He explained, “We watched these players and then went outside and took a name. I didn’t take any, but in my mind, I tried to be like Zidane.” He expressed admiration for Zidane’s smooth and feather-like style of play, which he aspired to replicate on the field.

The midfielder recounted his journey from playing in Ashaiman to joining Tema Youth, where he felt more like Zidane. “I would take the ball, dribble, and go forward, trying to do a lot of things,” he said. Partey highlighted how his approach was more creative and attacking during those early stages of his career, inspired by Zidane’s technical ability and elegance on the ball.

However, Partey’s style evolved when he moved to Spain, where football demands different tactical roles. “When I got to Spain, I became a different kind of player,” he explained. “They see me as a six who just wins the ball and gives it to someone else.” Despite this change, Partey remains proud of his roots and the influence Zidane had on his development as a footballer.