'They looked like me': Why Arsenal became Africa's club
In Kenyan influencer Nana Owiti's wardrobe, dozens of Arsenal jerseys tell the story of her passion for the club. Dozens of gleeful Kenyans blasted vuvuzelas when tearful Spanish fans appeared on screen, and one fan even lit a flare inside the bar, adding a Gunner-red hue to the jubilation.
Kenyans go wild as Arsenal earn a place in the Champions League final (Tony KARUMBA) In Kenyan influencer Nana Owiti's wardrobe, dozens of Arsenal jerseys tell the story of her passion for the club. It's an unbreakable bond that goes back 20 years to the days when the London team's largely black squad made them hugely popular in Africa. "(Thierry) Henry actually made me fall in love with Arsenal first off because he was a cutie," said Owiti, who has millions of social media followers for her Gunners-obsessed social media feeds.
Her first and most treasured jersey was Henry's number 14. "And then I look again and I see Sol Campbell -- his massive body," she added with a giggle. "And all of a sudden, Kolo Toure...
so many players of African descent. " In September 2002, Arsenal became the first club to name nine black players in a Premier League starting XI as they beat Leeds 4-1. "(They) looked like me...
that was why I chose Arsenal," said Owiti. "Arsenal is responsible for most of my happiness and sadness. " It's mostly happiness these days, with the club on the verge of winning the Premier League and securing a place in the Champions League final this week.