Patrice Evra, a Manchester United icon, traveled to Lagos, Nigeria, on Saturday to assist a chess initiative.
The Frenchman, who retired from professional football in 2019, spent time under the famed Oshodi bridge, where he learned the game from children.
On Friday, Evra announced his first visit to the West African country on social media. “Exciting news! “For the first time ever, Evra bus stop will stop in #Nigeria,” the 40-year-old tweeted.
Tunde Onakoya started Chess In Slums, an organization dedicated to teaching and unlocking the potential of every kid through chess educational resources and mentorship.
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Aside from having fun with the kids, the former AS Monaco and Juventus defender was welcomed into the ‘Extraordinary League of Area Boys.’
“#Nigeria, checkmate, Evra bus halt!” “Those bright kids have me soo impressed,” the former Red Devils veteran wrote.
Patrice Evra played for some of Europe’s top clubs over his 20-year career, including Manchester United, Juventus, Monaco, Nice, and Marseille.
During his career, he won 21 major trophies, including five Premier League crowns, three EFL Cups, and the 2007-08 Champions League with Manchester United.
His move to Juventus in 2014 resulted in him winning the Serie A and Coppa Italia in consecutive seasons.
After making his senior debut for Les Bleus in August 2004, the left-back also represented France 81 times on the international stage.
After announcing his retirement in 2019, he stated that he wanted to start a coaching career with the goal of becoming a manager in two years.
He told Gazzetta dello Sport, “My playing career is officially gone.”
“I began preparing for the UEFA B Coaching License in 2013, and now I want to complete it before moving on to the UEFA A License.”
“If everything goes well, I’ll be ready to head a squad in a year and a half.”
More football legends are set to visit ChessInSlums soon too.
