Eddie Nketiah: From a Ghanaian Home to Premier League Stardom
How Crystal Palace’s Forward Embraces His Roots
Growing up in a Ghanaian household in London, Eddie Nketiah learned early on that discipline, faith, and perseverance were key to success. Born to Ghanaian parents, the Crystal Palace striker’s journey was far from smooth.
At just nine, he joined Chelsea’s academy, only to be released at 14. But setbacks didn’t define him. Arsenal gave him another chance, and he made the most of it—scoring 38 goals in 168 appearances before moving to Crystal Palace last summer.
Reflecting on his upbringing, Nketiah shared how his Ghanaian heritage shaped his career.
“Yeah, it was very, very joyful. There was a lot of good food along the way, a lot of faith, and it’s instilled confidence and a good foundation in me. I’m really in touch with that,” he told NBC Sports.
Whenever he gets the chance, Nketiah visits Ghana, staying connected with his roots. The culture, he says, has instilled a hard-working and disciplined mindset in him—one that continues to drive his success.
Last Sunday, Nketiah’s determination was on full display as he found the net in Crystal Palace’s FA Cup quarter-final victory over Fulham, helping his side book a place in the semi-finals.