Chancel Mbemba #22

Profile

“Boulot, palais.” (‘’Work, house’’ in Congolese-French slang), the phrase Mbemba used in an interview to describe his lifestyle has since become his nickname in DR Congo. It reflects the discipline that defines him. Previously dubbed “the Chancellor” or even “demi-God” by supporters, Mbemba commands immense respect in his country. With over 100 caps and the captain’s armband, he is the undisputed leader of the Leopards. Strong in one-on-one situations, comfortable on the ball and quite effective in front of goal – a reminder of his early days as a striker – he is the backbone of the team. Born into a poor family of eight children in Kinshasa, Mbemba is a rare success story in a country where thousands of talents go unnoticed every year due to a lack of structure. Trained in the country, then developed at Anderlecht, he built a solid European career, including a spell with Newcastle. His journey could have reached even greater heights were it not for long-standing doubts surrounding his age – a controversy that has followed him despite his consistency at the highest level.

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