Reflecting on the Arsenal Academy
When Stephy Mavididi lines up against Arsenal this Saturday at 12:30 PM, he will undoubtedly be flooded with memories from his eight-year stint at the Emirates Stadium. "The message was always to apply yourself every day and take nothing for granted," he says, reflecting on the club’s ethos. "It’s a massive club, but they’re big on educating young boys and turning them into men. That’s the biggest life-skill you can learn, and I’ll forever be grateful for it." Mavididi joined Arsenal from Southend United as a teenager, where he had frequent encounters with the Gunners’ youth teams. "We used to play them once or twice a season because our academies had a good relationship," he recalls. "Every time we played, they would thrash us, but it helped us become familiar with their players. I knew the whole squad and made lifelong friends there."
Arsene Wenger’s Indelible Impact
One of the most influential figures during Mavididi’s time at Arsenal was legendary manager Arsene Wenger. "When I was in the youth team, Wenger was a massive character and had a massive aura, but he didn’t say much," Mavididi explains. "We could be training for an hour, and he would walk over for the last 30 minutes, and everything would just increase—the tempo, the quality. He wouldn’t say anything, just walk away, and it left you thinking, ‘I hope I caught his eye.’ I feel like that was one of his biggest strengths, leaving that impression on people, especially in the academy." The club has continued to produce quality talents like Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith-Rowe, now at Fulham, which Mavididi attributes to their solid family backgrounds and exceptional talent. "You’re not surprised because they come from good families and are talented. Their parents are always involved, and they instill the right values," he adds.
Transitioning to Juventus
After leaving Arsenal, Mavididi’s talent caught the eye of Italian giants Juventus in 2018. The move was facilitated by Giorgio Chiellini’s twin brother, a director overseeing the second team and below. "He was the one who got in contact with my agent and told me about my game and their project," Mavididi recounts. "He’s football mad and scouted me himself." Training alongside world-class players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Gianluigi Buffon, Leonardo Bonucci, Sami Khedira, and Paulo Dybala was a transformative experience. "There’s no better place to learn," he says. "Ronaldo’s work ethic was insane. He would finish every cross and every free kick, no matter if there was a crowd or not. That’s why he’s one of the best."
Embracing the French League
In 2020, Mavididi signed with French side Montpellier, where he quickly became a first-team regular, scoring 21 goals in 98 appearances and surpassing Chris Waddle to become the most-capped English player in Ligue 1 history. "Playing in France was a good stepping-stone," he reflects. "People often say it’s a ‘farmer’s league,’ but that’s not true. The level is high, and there are some very competitive teams. Even playing PSG with their all-star team was like a gala match, but the league is highly competitive and consistently produces talent." Despite the challenges, Mavididi thrived, showcasing his dribbling and scoring prowess, and gaining a deep appreciation for the physicality and competitiveness of French football.
Finding His Feet at Leicester
Mavididi returned to England in 2022, signing a five-year contract with Leicester City. His debut campaign was a highlight, as he played a crucial role in securing the club’s promotion back to the Premier League. "To this day, it’s the highlight of my career," he says. "We played some good football with a top manager, and it was enjoyable from start to finish. Even the dark moments were somehow enjoyable because of the pressure we faced." Leicester fans fell in love with his attacking play and his distinctive celebrations, including the memorable arm-folded celebration in front of Birmingham City fans. "When they’re giving it the whole game with their chants, I always say, if you give it, you should be able to take it," he laughs. "Luckily, we won that game, or I would have been in trouble."
Overcoming Frustrations and Aiming for the Future
This season, however, has been more challenging for Mavididi, partly due to the club’s mid-season managerial change from Steve Cooper to Ruud van Nistelrooy. "It’s frustrating for myself because I know I could do a lot more and help the team and club a lot more," he admits. "But it’s part of football, and I just have to keep working hard and take my chances when they come." Mavididi’s journey through various loan spells, including stints at Charlton Athletic, Preston North End, and Dijon, has shaped him into the player he is today. "Those loans were vital in my development," he says. "They made me grow up quickly and experience the real world of football, where you have to fight and earn your place." He is now eager to help Leicester avoid relegation and is fully motivated for the upcoming match against his former club. "We have a crucial run of games now, and we need to be prepared and attack the game on Saturday," he concludes. "Hopefully, we’ll see brighter days and get over the line."
