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In a candid interview, Slavia Prague’s rising Nigerian talent David Moses revealed his football inspirations and surprisingly, they don’t include Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo. Instead, the 21 year old midfielder pointed to Neymar and Super Eagles winger Moses Simon as his key influences.
While growing up in Nigeria, David Moses admitted he didn’t follow traditional role models but admired players who showcased flair and passion. "I wouldn’t say role models, but I like the style of some players. For example, Moses Simon, the winger for French club Nantes," he said. "Even though we play in different positions, I like the passion he plays with."
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When pressed to choose between Messi or Ronaldo, his answer was refreshingly unique: "Actually, neither. I respect both, but when I scored goals or did something, I was Neymar."
Neymar’s flair and expressive style seem to resonate most with the young midfielder, who sees football not just as a competition but as a joyful, creative expression. With Moses Simon’s dedication and Neymar’s artistry shaping his mindset, David Moses is carving a football identity rooted in heart and style.
Editorial
We often idolise the most decorated stars—Messi, Ronaldo, Mbappé and for good reason. They represent the pinnacle of achievement in modern football. But every now and then, a young voice reminds us that greatness comes in many forms. David Moses’ choice of Moses Simon and Neymar as his inspirations says a lot—not just about his personality, but about a deeper appreciation of what makes football beautiful.
In Moses Simon, he sees the relentless spirit and patriotic drive of a player who may not steal headlines but leaves everything on the pitch. In Neymar, he finds the freedom to express, to enjoy, to be unabashedly creative. Together, these influences suggest that David Moses isn’t just another cog in a tactical machine—he wants to entertain.
This perspective is important. We need players who value emotion, who play with rhythm and soul. Players like Moses Simon—understated but impactful deserve more recognition as role models. And Neymar, for all his controversies, represents joy, spontaneity, and courage in a game increasingly obsessed with stats and structure.
So as David Moses continues his journey in Czech football, we hope his admiration for flair and dedication will not be dulled by system or conformity. Nigeria could use a player who balances fire with finesse. We need footballers who not only play well but play beautifully and Moses is pointing himself in that direction.
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Did You Know?
Moses Simon holds a UEFA B coaching licence and is actively preparing for life after football.
Neymar was once the subject of a documentary called The Perfect Chaos, showcasing his off-field challenges and stardom pressures.
David Moses is not related to former Super Eagles winger Victor Moses, despite sharing a surname and position.
Moses Simon once considered quitting after being denied a move to Ajax early in his career.
Neymar was named after his father, Neymar Santos Sr., who was also a professional footballer and his early manager.