'I loved Drogba as well' – Tosin names Chelsea legends among childhood idols

Super Eagles-eligible defender Tosin Adarabioyo has named Chelsea greats John Terry and Didier Drogba among the football icons he admired growing up.

Born in London, the 27-year-old began his professional career at Manchester City before making the switch to Fulham, and eventually returning to the capital to join Chelsea as a free agent in the summer of 2024.

Since arriving at Stamford Bridge, Adarabioyo has established himself as a key figure under manager Enzo Maresca, scoring five goals and providing one assist in 43 appearances across all competitions.

In a quickfire interview session with Chelsea's official website, Adarabioyo was asked about his earliest football role models. 

He responded: “When I was young I had a few role models, to be honest. Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo, John Terry, Rio Ferdinand, I loved Didier Drogba as well. So a fair few.”

The tall centre-back is expected to play a central role for the Blues this season, especially with Levi Colwill sidelined by injury. 

While he has represented England at youth levels, Adarabioyo remains eligible to play for Nigeria, having yet to feature for the Three Lions at senior level.

With the Super Eagles’ World Cup qualification hopes hanging in the balance after a 1-1 draw against South Africa, Nigeria coach Eric Chelle may look to strengthen his defensive options ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations, particularly as veteran William Troost-Ekong edges closer to the twilight of his career.

Adeyemi Adewale

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