Ghanaian defender Alidu Seidu's journey to professional football is a powerful story of resilience and determination. Seidu, who now plays for Stade Rennais and the Black Stars, revealed that his path to success was far from easy, having faced repeated setbacks during his early career.

Growing up in Kumasi, Seidu encountered numerous challenges, particularly during his attempts to join the JMG Academy in Oyibi.

In an interview with Flashscore, Seidu shared how he failed to pass the trials at the academy four times.

“I went for trials five times at JMG Academy, located opposite Valley View University.

Each time, I was told I wasn’t good enough,” Seidu reflected on his early disappointments. After his fourth rejection, doubt crept in, and he began to question his future in football.

“I thought maybe I wouldn’t become a professional player, and I almost quit,” he admitted, adding that he had considered joining the military if football didn’t work out.

However, his uncle’s encouragement pushed him to give it one more shot. “My uncle urged me to go for trials one more time, and on the fifth attempt, I finally got in,” Seidu revealed.

That breakthrough moment marked the beginning of an impressive career that has seen him rise through the ranks to play in France’s Ligue 1 and represent Ghana on the international stage.