Full Breakdown
Amido Balde Reflects on His Football Career and Current Life
2/18/2026, 12:41:42 PM
Career Overview and Decline
Amido Balde, a former striker for Celtic, signed with the club in 2013 for £2 million from Vitoria de Guimaraes. His tenure at Celtic was marked by disappointment, as he scored only three goals in 20 appearances. Following this underwhelming performance, Balde was loaned out to Waasland-Beveren in Belgium and Hapoel Tel Aviv in Israel before his contract was mutually terminated in 2015. After leaving Celtic, he played for several clubs across various countries, including France, Angola, Portugal, Albania, Libya, and Indonesia, with his last competitive match occurring in Vietnam for Ho Chi Minh City in 2020.
Current Life and Aspirations
Now 34 years old, Balde has transitioned from football to working in a brick factory in Thorn, Netherlands, where he also operates a forklift. Despite his current occupation, he remains hopeful about reviving his football career. Balde expressed, “Maybe it’s not realistic, but I’d love to have another chance to prove myself in football.” He reminisced about the joy he felt playing in front of Celtic fans and acknowledged the support he received from his former teammate, Virgil van Dijk, during challenging times.
Reflections on His Career
Balde has reflected on the factors that contributed to his career's decline, citing a lack of focus and the challenges he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, which led him to prioritize family over football. He admitted to financial mismanagement, stating, “I didn’t make any money from my football career because I spent what I earned on clothes, watches, and going out. But I never made millions.”
Personal Life and Values
In his current life, Balde emphasizes the importance of family and faith. He regularly communicates with his wife and children, stating, “They are the most important thing to me. I also pray and read the Bible.” This focus on family and spirituality provides him with a sense of fulfillment beyond football.
Criticism and Future Prospects
While Balde's career decisions, including his refusal to accept a loan move from Ho Chi Minh City, have drawn criticism, he remains optimistic that a club might consider giving him another opportunity. He acknowledges the unpredictable nature of football, noting, “Football waits for nobody.” Balde's story serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of athletic success and the resilience required to navigate life after professional sports.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Maybe it's not realistic. But I'd love to have another chance to prove myself in football. I didn't realise how happy I was during my career.” — Amido Balde, Former Celtic Striker
- “I will never forget the packed stands at Celtic cheering me.” — Amido Balde
- “I didn't make any money from my football career because I spent what I earned on clothes, watches and going out.” — Amido Balde
- “The only things I focus on are work, my family, and my religion.” — Amido Balde
Balde's journey from a promising football career to his current life as a factory worker illustrates the challenges athletes face and their enduring hopes for redemption in their chosen sport.
