West Ham United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka is embracing a new chapter in his career. After years of being pursued by the DR Congo national team, he finally declared for the nation.
The London-raised defender is now representing DR Congo at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after years of failing to make the England team.
Widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s most effective one-on-one defenders, Wan-Bissaka has built his reputation on elite tackling, recovery pace and defensive intelligence.
The former Man United star has added maturity and composure to his game. His performances in West London have helped revive his reputation as a reliable presence at the back.
Away from the pitch, Wan-Bissaka’s personality is revealing. In a recent BBC This-or-That feature, the defender offered a glimpse into influences that shape him.
When asked to name his African football hero, the former Crystal Palace man never hesitated.
Samuel Eto’o’s relentless winning mentality clearly resonate with Wan-Bissaka, who hopes to carve is own legacy in the continent
His tastes are equally telling. He is a fan of the critically acclaimed movie, American Gangster, starring the likes of Denzel Washington and Idris Elba.
His calm and collected persona translates into his training habits too, revealing a presence for night practice.
When it comes to boxing rivalries, Wan-Bissaka backs Anthony Joshua over Deontay Wilder. Despite spending five years playing for Manchester United, he has a preference for living in London.
As someone who has earned comparisons to Spider Man due to his web-like defensive approach, it was no surprise that is his favorite comic superhero.
Asked to name his top three African Premier League legends, Wan-Bissaka selected Yaya Tourer, Dider Drogba and Mo Salah.
Having already helped his country grab an opening victory by beating Benin 1-0 in their first game of AFCON 2025, Wan-Bissaka has one goal only.
With DR Congo having made the semis at the 2023 edition, and now are just 180 minutes away from AFCON qualification, he wants to leave a mark.
it is an opportunity to honour his heroes and write his own chapter in African football history.
