Leicester: Daka’s fascinating life in and out of football

"“It was a distraction. The whole country was united in excitement. You could feel it everywhere. Everybody was talking about it, including the president.” – said Lee Kawanu, the man who has helped direct Daka’s career, and has built Kafue Celtic up from the non-league to the Zambia Super League. Source: Daily Mail."

Daka’s turbulent pathway leading to Leicester City

Things were not so smooth for Daka in his early years. Though he managed to become known as a top footballing talent, the uphill climb was tough. Estimates of him as a potent talent landed him on the national side when he was just 16. There, he was told to adapt as a lone striker. He struggled to replicate the instructions. The lack of goals meant that ardent Zambian nationalists turned hostile towards him.

He was greeted with boos eclipsing any cheer. They thought he was over-promised as a prospect. These things were not enough to hold him back. Leading from the front, he helped Zambia to win the U20 African Nations Cup. He became Africa’s Young Player of the Year. He maturely overcomes adversity, and his humble upbringing has a lot to credit for this particular trait.

Blue Army fans know by now that Daka comes off as a generous young player. He hasn’t forgotten his roots from where he sprouted. His ex-teammates and friends at Kafue Celtic, where it all began, still hold him to the highest regard. Daka’s father was also a winger in the Zambia Super League.