One To Watch
Emmanuel 'Emegoat' Emegha, Strasbourg's effervescent Dutch striker
A point at the Vélodrome isn't for everyone, but Strasbourg showed courage and determination against Roberto De Zerbi's Marseille on Sunday evening. The embodiment of RCSA's excellent first-half performance: Emmanuel Emegha's incisive run and finish in front of the Virage Nord, aided by a superb ball by Brazilian Andrey Santos.
The Dutch striker has become a pivotal figure at Racing Club de Strasbourg this season, but it hasn't always been that easy for Emegha at the club. He wants to win at everything – cards, FIFA, even racing to finish a bottle of water," recalls his twin brother, Joshua in an interview with L'Équipe. Introduced to football at the age of seven to channel his boundless energy, Emegha initially played as a goalkeeper. However, his destiny lay elsewhere. During a childhood game, he discarded his gloves, scored a decisive goal, and never looked back. "From that moment, he decided to always play as a striker," Joshua said.
Standing at 1.95 meters and weighing 82 kilograms, Emegha is more than just a physical presence. He is a charismatic leader who organises team outings and brings a sense of camaraderie to the dressing room. "He’s flamboyant, with a touch of Dutch insolence," said a source close to Strasbourg players to L'Équipe. His jovial nature belies the challenges he has overcome, including financial hardship and the absence of his father from birth.
Emegha's path to success
Emegha’s path to success has been anything but smooth. After joining Sparta Rotterdam at 12, his family’s financial struggles meant he often couldn’t afford boots. Transferred to Royal Antwerp for €2 million in 2022, he suffered a severe injury in his first training session. Despite limited opportunities, he moved to Sturm Graz, where he flourished, scoring nine goals in 27 league matches and winning the Austrian Cup in 2023.
Emegha’s start at Strasbourg was challenging to say the least. Signed for €13 million in July 2023, he struggled to win over fans after replacing the beloved Habib Diallo. A slow start under Patrick Vieira saw him score just four goals in the first 23 Ligue 1 games. Nevertheless, his resilience shone through. At Reims, he even ventured into the stands to address frustrated supporters, earning their respect.
“Many thought my first season was poor,” Emegha admitted. “But I stayed positive and kept pushing.” His determination paid off, finishing his debut season with eight goals in 28 matches.
Under Liam Rosenior, Emegha has become indispensable. Strasbourg struggled during his absence earlier this season, winning just one of five matches. With seven goals now in twelve Ligue 1 appearances this campaign, he has solidified his place as a key starter. His performances have also attracted attention from the Dutch national team, with whispers of a senior call-up from Ronald Koeman.
Strasbourg face a tough home test against LOSC Lille in their next outing in Ligue 1 McDonald's next Saturday (19:00 CET).
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