- Taiwo began his career in the Nigerian Professional League, where his raw talent quickly caught the eye of scouts
- In 2005, he started his European journey by signing with Marseille, where he became a fan favourite
- After much success with Marseille, he went on a nomadic journey across clubs in Italy, England, Turkey, Finland, Switzerland, Sweden, and the United States
Former Super Eagles defender Taye Taiwo had recently been honoured with induction into Olympique Marseille’s esteemed Club of Legends, a tribute that reflects his indelible impact on the club.
Marseille celebrated the event on social media on February 2,
"Taye Taiwo is in the house tonight as the former Olympien and Super Eagle is inducted into the #OMLegends club," they announced.
Recognised as one of Nigeria’s finest left-backs, Taiwo earned 54 caps and scored five goals for the Super Eagles between 2004 and 2011. His illustrious career at Marseille saw him make 271 appearances, score 25 goals, and contribute 23 assists, while also winning Ligue 1, the League Cup, and the French Super Cup.
Having also featured for top European clubs such as AC Milan and Queens Park Rangers, Taiwo's journey remained a source of inspiration.
TheRadar has compiled seven intriguing facts that reveal lesser-known facets of his storied career that fans may not have known.
7 facts about Marseille’s legend Taye Taiwo
Taye Taiwo was celebrated for his thunderous left-footed strikes and charismatic presence on the pitch. Here are some fascinating facts about the former football star that many fans might not know:
1. Humble beginnings in Lagos
Taye Taiwo was born in Lagos, Nigeria, to Salisu and Mrs. Taiwo. He was the firstborn of a twin birth. Rumours about age discrepancies with his twin circulated for years, but Taiwo later clarified that these stories were entirely false.
2. A tragic family loss
Reportedly, Taiwo’s twin sister had tragically passed away during childhood, and he lost his mother years later. His father also passed away in 2020.
These losses had a profound impact on him, as he was left to carry the family legacy alongside his surviving siblings, two sisters and three brothers.
3. A promising start in Nigerian football
Taiwo began his football journey in the Nigerian Professional League, where he displayed early promise that caught the eye of scouts, setting him on a path to international stardom.
4. European adventure with Marseille
In 2005, Taiwo embarked on a European adventure by signing for Olympique de Marseille. His time in France was widely regarded as the high point of his career. He became a fan favourite due to his defensive skills and impressive left-footed strikes.
5. International breakthrough at the FIFA U-20 World Cup
While representing Nigeria at the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup, Taiwo gained invaluable international experience. This tournament helped shape his reputation as a rising star in Nigerian football.
6. Success amidst challenges at Marseille
Despite occasional disciplinary issues and bouts of inconsistency, Taiwo’s career at Marseille was decorated with success. He helped the club win several trophies, including Ligue 1 and the Coupe de la Ligue.
His impact on the club was so significant that current French international Adrien Rabiot cited him as one of his favourite players growing up.
7. A nomadic career and business ventures
In 2011, Taiwo made a high-profile move to AC Milan, although his time in Italy was challenging due to limited game time. He subsequently experienced a nomadic career, featuring on loan at Queens Park Rangers and Dynamo Kyiv, before playing for clubs in Turkey, Finland, Switzerland, Sweden, and even the United States.
Off the pitch, Taiwo’s net worth was estimated to exceed $6 million, thanks in part to his successful business ventures, including reportedly building a 3-billion-naira hotel in Lagos. He was also married to his longtime partner Nimota, with whom he shares two children.
Taye Taiwo, Taribo West and other Super Eagles stars to have played for AC Milan
Previously, TheRadar took an extensive look into how past and present Super Eagles players made notable impacts during their time at AC Milan and beyond from Taribo West's tough defensive presence to Taye Taiwo’s laudable skills.
This article dives deep into the journeys of four standout Super Eagles players who have donned the iconic red and black of the Rossoneri.
