Hailing from the ever-busy metropolis of Amsterdam, where he first saw the light of day on March 12, 2005, Andrew Imade’s story is a blend of Dutch upbringing and Nigerian heritage. His parents, both natives of Edo State, instilled in him the indomitable spirit of their homeland, even as he spent his days in the Dutch capital.

BOUNCE recently caught up with the rising star who bridges the gap between Dutch and Nigerian cultures. Andrew takes us on a journey into his life, discussing the infectious energy of Afrobeats, the flavors that connect him to his heritage, the values instilled in him by his upbringing, and the path he’s carving out in the world of football.

Andrew’s football journey began on the gritty asphalt of Amsterdam. “I started kicking a ball around with my older brother as a kid,” he reminisces. The city streets were his training ground, a far cry from the manicured pitches his brother practiced on nearby. Undeterred, he honed his skills alone, finding rhythm in the echo of the ball against concrete.

 “My family is very football-oriented,” he shares, a fact that is evident in the sporting inclinations of his big brothers and little sisters.

Football Education Began

Andrew was a natural-born playmaker. His feet, it seemed, had a mind of their own, dancing effortlessly across the pitch. He possessed a vision that few possessed, able to spot a pass before it opened up. His left foot was a surgeon’s scalpel, delivering precise passes that split defenses like a hot knife through butter and score belters.

The 19-year-old’s football journey took a more structured turn when his family moved to Vlaardingen. There, he joined Zwaluwen, a club where he would spend the next eight formative years. “That’s where I met my trainer, who really believed in me and guided me through,” Andrew explains. This mentorship proved pivotal, nurturing his raw talent and instilling a disciplined approach to the game.

Despite his deep-rooted passion for football, Andrew remains committed to his education. “I am still going to school; I am now in my last school year,” he notes. Balancing academics and a burgeoning football career is no small feat, but Andrew manages it with determination, fueled by the support of his family and management team, PMC. 

 

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Nigeria Culture in The Netherlands

The Imade household is a vibrant fusion of Nigerian culture and Dutch life. “At home, we have a Nigerian atmosphere,” Andrew shares with a warm smile. This cultural blend is particularly evident in the family’s culinary traditions. Andrew’s eyes light up as he describes his favorite dishes: “I love to eat my mom’s jollof rice, fufu, and I love fried rice.” These meals are more than just sustenance; they’re a comforting link to his Nigerian heritage.

 

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Music is another essential part of Andrew’s cultural identity. He cites Davido, Burna Boy, and Wizkid as his favorite artists, their Afrobeat rhythms providing inspiration and a strong sense of belonging. “I listen to a lot of Davido, Burna Boy, and also Wizkid,” he says.

Jay-Jay Okocha’s Influence and Nigeria Aspirations

Andrew’s aspirations in football are as vibrant as his cultural identity. His dream is to showcase the talent of African players on the world stage. “I would like to play for my home. Rise and shine and let everybody see how talented African players are,” he declares. His Nigerian idol, Jay-Jay Okocha, epitomizes the style and flair Andrew admires. “His playstyle is amazing and wonderful to look at,” he enthuses, hoping to emulate Okocha’s impact and creativity on the field.

Currently, Andrew is carving out his path with ADO Den Haag, a significant step in his football journey. His ambition to play for Nigeria, both at the youth and senior levels, drives him forward. The prospect of donning the Nigerian jersey is a powerful motivator, blending personal pride with national representation.

 

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Andrew Imade’s story is one of cultural duality and sporting ambition. It reflects the experiences of many young diaspora individuals who navigate their identities while pursuing their dreams. For Andrew, the interplay of Dutch and Nigerian influences is not a challenge but a unique advantage. It provides a rich tapestry of experiences from which to draw strength and inspiration.