Fabrice Ndala Muamba, a former Bolton central midfielder, had a remarkable career in professional football from 2005 to 2012. Starting with Arsenal and gaining recognition at Birmingham City, Muamba’s style of play drew comparisons to the legendary Patrick Vieira. Beyond his football prowess, Muamba excelled academically despite not speaking English when he sought refuge in England at the age of 11. Representing England at U-19 and U-21 level, Muamba’s promising career was tragically cut short by a cardiac arrest on the field. However, he has since dedicated his time to charitable causes and promoting heart health. Now, Muamba is pursuing a career as a coach, returning to the sport he loves.
Quick Facts
- British Celebrities Born In April
- Also Known As: Fabrice Ndala Muamba
- Age: 35 Years, 35 Year Old Males
- Family:
- Spouse/Ex-: Shauna Magunda (m. 2012)
- Father: Marcel Muamba
- Mother: Gertrude Muamba
- Siblings: Daniel Muamba
- Children: Joshua Jeremiah
- Born Country: Congo, Democratic Republic Of The
- Football Players
- British Men
- Height: 6’2″ (188 cm), 6’2″ Males
- Notable Alumni: Staffordshire University
- Education: Staffordshire University
Childhood & Early Life
Fabrice Muamba was born on April 6, 1988, in Kinshasa, Zaire. His father, Marcel Muamba, was an adviser to Dictator Mobutu Sese Seko and had to flee Zaire in 1994 to save his life. He sought asylum in England and was given indefinite leave in 1999. Muamba’s family joined him in England, settling in east London. Muamba began his schooling at Kelmscott School in Walthamstow. Despite being a refugee unable to speak English, Muamba excelled academically, earning three A-Levels and 10 GCSEs.
Career as a Professional Footballer
Muamba joined the Arsenal Academy in August 2004 and made his team debut in a league cup match in October 2005. He then joined Birmingham City on loan in August 2006 and established himself as a central midfielder. He made his stay permanent with the club in May 2007. In June 2008, he moved to Bolton Wanderers on a four-year contract. Muamba had an impressive season with Bolton and was named “The Bolton News Player of the Season.” However, his career was cut short when he collapsed on the field during a match in March 2012 due to a cardiac arrest.
Post Retirement Career
After his retirement, Muamba tried his hand at commentary and coaching. He worked as a commentator for BT Sport and also pursued coaching opportunities. He obtained a Football management Diploma from the University of Liverpool and coached the U-16 team at Rochdale.
Awards & Achievements
Muamba was voted as the “Young Player of the Season” by Birmingham City fans. He also accepted an honorary doctorate from the University of Bolton to honor the medical professionals who helped save his life.
Family & Personal Life
During his time at Birmingham City, Muamba met Shauna Magunda, and the two got engaged in 2012. They got married seven months after Muamba’s cardiac arrest and have two sons together.
Trivia
Muamba has obtained accountancy qualifications and has expressed that he would have pursued a career as an accountant if he wasn’t a footballer.