Idman.biz presents an exclusive interview with James Eziashi, a promising young talent from the Sabail U12 team.
– How did your love for football begin? When did you first discover the ball?
– My father was a footballer, and we often watched matches together. That’s when I decided I wanted to become a footballer too.
– What’s your strongest quality on the pitch — speed, technique, or tactical thinking?
– My biggest strength is my speed.
– How do you celebrate when you score a goal? Any signature moves or dances?
– I celebrate like Cole Palmer. But I don’t have a special dance.
– What’s your favorite type of training?
– Physical and technical drills.
– If you could choose any world-class club to join one day, which would it be?
– If I had the chance, I’d love to play for PSG.
– Ronaldo, Messi, Mbappé — who do you relate to most, and why?
– I see myself most like Mbappé: I’m fast, good at taking penalties, and have strong dribbling skills.
– What’s the strangest or most frustrating thing that’s happened to you on the field?
– The most frustrating thing for me is making mistakes — even though I know it’s normal during a game.
– What’s the most important match you’ve won, and how did you reward yourself?
– After an important win, I treated myself to a PlayStation 5.
– Which famous goalkeeper would you love to score against?
– Manuel Neuer.
– Do you have any hidden talents outside football, like art, music, or acrobatics?
– Yes — I also practice karate.
– What’s the weirdest exercise or piece of advice you’ve received from a coach?
– Our coach doesn’t give us strange tasks — just useful and necessary advice.
– You dream of playing for Azerbaijan, but if Nigeria called, what would you do?
– My biggest dream is to wear the Azerbaijan national jersey. But if Nigeria invited me, I’d like to test myself there as well, because while Azerbaijan is my homeland, Nigeria is my father’s.
– Do you think talent alone is enough for success in football?
– No, I believe talent isn’t enough. You need determination, willpower, and persistence to succeed.
– Do you have a personal mantra, prayer, or habit that motivates you on the field?
– No special words — just the support of my teammates and coach.
– What’s your most memorable game or goal, and why?
– The match against Neftchi. I scored an important goal, and the whole team fought hard. Even though it ended in a draw, it was unforgettable.
– Do you listen to music before training?
– I rarely listen to music, but when I do, I like American rap.
– If you weren’t a footballer, what would you want to be?
– A programmer or a basketball player.
– What’s your favorite subject at school, and why?
– Geography, because I love learning about nature.
– If a movie were made about your life, what would you call it?
– “Towards Dreams.”
– What’s your favorite tradition or holiday in Azerbaijan?
– Novruz Bayram.
– How would your friends describe you — funny, serious, or a leader?
– Funny.
– Who’s your favorite hero or role model?
– Spider-Man.
– Have you ever wanted to take a break and hide from football?
– Never.
– What do people most often misunderstand about you?
– They often think I’m a foreigner, but I’m an Azerbaijani citizen.
– Who has taught you the biggest life lesson?
– My mother.
– Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
– As a football star.
– Is friendship harder on the field or in life?
– Friendship is harder on the field.
