“Since four years ago and I haven’t seen them” – Rudiger finally reveals real reason for going to Sierra Leone
Following Antonio Rudiger’s breaks at at Sierra Leone, Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger has revealed why he spent his week off.
Antonio Rudiger told the Chelsea official website: “It was the second time visiting the country for me, although this time it was a bit more intense with some busy days launching my foundation and meeting the president,”
“I wanted to do this for some time because it was very personal to me so when I heard we were having a week off, I was planning from there.
“My parents moved back four years ago and I haven’t seen my mother for ages so that’s why it was clear for me to go back to Sierra Leone.
On being appointed football ambassador to Sierra Leone, Rudiger said: “Of course, to get honoured by the president is probably the biggest thing you can receive, so I am really honoured and proud.
“The reception I received from the people was overwhelming, and I really didn’t expect it.”
Rudiger’s foundation builds on previous work he has done in Sierra Leone. As part of the Covid-19 pandemic response, the Chelsea defender sent food to frontline health workers in the country and provided 60,000 face masks to the wider population.
Earlier in 2020, he donated over $100,000 to Sierra Leone’s Free Quality Education initiative, which aims to support over two million children in primary and secondary schools, while recently he funded life-changing operations for 11 children with club feet. As part of his trip, the 28-year-old also visited the Sierra Leone Amputee football team.