Iliman Ndiaye captivates football fans worldwide with his explosive speed, silky skills, and unyielding determination on the pitch. This comprehensive article dives deep into his journey from humble beginnings in France to becoming a Premier League sensation at Everton, complete with the latest stats, career highlights, and insights as of February 2026.
Early Life and Family Roots
Iliman Cheikh Baroy Ndiaye bursts onto the scene on March 6, 2000, in Rouen, France, where a Senegalese father and French mother raise him in a vibrant multicultural household that instills discipline, passion for football, and strong family values from the very start. Growing up amidst the bustling streets of Normandy, young Iliman kicks his first ball against concrete walls and joins local youth academies, honing his dribbling flair and goal-scoring instincts while balancing school demands and dreaming big about professional stardom; his father’s tales of Senegalese football legends like Sadio Mané ignite a fire that propels him forward relentlessly. Scouts soon notice Kilmarnock vs Celtic his raw talent during street games and early club trials, marking the beginning of a trajectory that transforms a kid from Rouen into an international icon who proudly represents Senegal’s Lion pride on global stages.
Moreover, Ndiaye’s dual heritage shapes his identity profoundly, as he navigates French education systems while embracing Senegalese traditions during family visits, fostering resilience and adaptability that later define his career moves across borders. He idolizes players like Ronaldinho for their creativity and Mané for their African pride, practicing endless step-overs and free-kicks in local parks until dusk, building the stamina and vision that make him a nightmare for defenders even today. This formative period lays the unbreakable foundation for his rise, proving that grit and genetic flair combine powerfully when nurtured in a supportive home environment.
Youth Career Breakthroughs
Ndiaye explodes into organized youth football with stints at local Rouen clubs, dazzling coaches with his pace and precision before earning a move to England’s Boreham Wood FC youth setup on November 17, 2017, where he signs his first professional contract and sharpens his competitive edge against seasoned non-league opponents. Clubs like Hyde United FC welcome him on loan during the 2019-20 season’s second half, and he grabs attention immediately by netting one goal in just one appearance, showcasing the predatory instincts that hint at his future Premier League prowess. Transitioning seamlessly, he joins Sheffield United FC on August 31, 2019, immersing himself in the Championship grind and rapidly adapting to English football’s physicality while weaving magic with his right foot on the wing.
Furthermore, these early loans and contracts teach Ndiaye invaluable lessons in professionalism, as he battles injuries, homesickness, and fierce competition, yet emerges stronger, scoring consistently and assisting teammates with pinpoint crosses that Sheffield Wednesday elevate team performances. His youth stats reflect a prodigy in bloom—goals flow naturally, assists multiply, and defenders scramble in vain—setting the stage for senior breakthroughs that shock the football world. By consistently outperforming expectations, Ndiaye proves doubters wrong, turning heads at every level and positioning himself for meteoric ascent.
Sheffield United Glory Days
Sheffield United hands Ndiaye his Premier League debut on March 14, 2021, substituting him in a tough 5-0 loss to Leicester City, but he wastes no time rewriting his narrative by exploding for two goals against Peterborough United on September 11 in a thrilling 6-2 Championship victory that electrifies Bramall Lane fans. During the 2021-22 Championship season, he features in 32 league games, bangs in 7 goals with 2 assists, then elevates dramatically in 2022-23 with 46 appearances, 14 goals, and 11 assists, driving Sheffield United’s promotion push with dazzling solo runs, curling finishes, and playmaking vision that leaves opponents chasing shadows. Overall, he amasses 88 appearances, 22 goals, and 14 assists across 79 league games, cementing legend status among Blades supporters who chant his name fervently.
In addition, Ndiaye’s Sheffield tenure peaks with unforgettable moments like his brace on debut and season-defining strikes that secure promotion, as he outpaces full-backs, nutmegs midfielders, and celebrates with infectious joy that bonds him to the club eternally. Managers praise his work rate off the ball and flair on it, while teammates credit his energy for unlocking defenses; consequently, his performances earn individual accolades and transfer buzz, propelling him toward bigger leagues. Sheffield United becomes the launchpad where Ndiaye transforms from prospect to star, dazzling with 15 goals and 12 assists in that promotion-winning 2022-23 campaign alone.
Iconic Sheffield Goals and Moments
Ndiaye etches his name in Blades folklore with a stunning solo goal against Millwall in 2022, slaloming past four defenders before chipping the keeper exquisitely, a highlight reel clip that garners millions of views and showcases his audacious confidence. He repeats the magic in playoffs and cup ties, rifling volleys and bending free-kicks into top corners, while his assist tally surges through clever through-balls that split defenses wide open. Fans still relive these clips, as Ndiaye’s flair single-handedly swings matches, proving he thrives under pressure and delivers when stakes skyrocket.
Move to Olympique de Marseille
Marseille swoops in during summer 2023, signing Ndiaye for a club-record fee after his Sheffield heroics, and he dives headfirst into Ligue 1 action, featuring in 30 league games with 3 goals and 3 assists while conquering Europe with 16 Champions League/Europa appearances, 1 goal, and tactical versatility that fits seamlessly into Roberto De Zerbi’s high-pressing system. Despite adapting to French football’s technical demands and facing stiff competition from stars The Lens vs PSG Rivalry like Mason Greenwood, Ndiaye logs 46 total appearances, 4 goals, and 3 assists, impressing with work rate, wing play, and occasional bursts of brilliance that hint at untapped potential in a star-studded squad. Marseille fans adore his hustle, chanting “Ili-maaan” as he terrorizes Ligue 1 defenses with direct runs and precise deliveries.
However, challenges like inconsistent starts and team struggles test Ndiaye’s mettle, yet he responds by improving defensively, tracking back relentlessly and winning duels, which earns manager trust and fan loyalty. Transitioning from Championship intensity to Ligue 1 finesse sharpens his game, preparing him perfectly for Premier League return; ultimately, his Marseille chapter builds maturity, exposing him to elite competition and continental nights under floodlights. By season’s end, scouts buzz anew, recognizing his evolution into a complete forward.
Everton Arrival and Premier League Resurgence
Everton secures Ndiaye’s signature in summer 2024, reuniting him with English football’s cauldron, and he repays faith instantly in 2024-25 with 33 league appearances, 9 goals, and solid contributions in 4 cup ties where he nets 2 more, helping stabilize a Toffees side battling relegation fears under David Moyes. Fast-forward to 2025-26, as of February 10, 2026, he racks up 20 league games, 5 goals, and 2 assists, plus 2 cup outings, totaling 59 appearances, 16 goals, and 2 assists across both seasons, dazzling Goodison Park with right-wing wizardry, powerful strikes, and tireless pressing that embodies Everton’s gritty spirit. Currently 25, Ndiaye wears the No. 10 shirt, boasts a €43.2M market value, stands 180cm tall, and favors his right foot, making him indispensable in Moyes’ survival blueprint.
Furthermore, Ndiaye shines brightest in big matches, scoring screamers against top-six rivals and assisting clutch goals that spark comebacks, while his off-ball movement creates space for Dominic Calvert-Lewin and others. Fans hail him as the “key to Everton survival,” per ESPN analysis, as his pace exploits transitions and flair unlocks low blocks; consequently, Goodison erupts with every goal celebration, solidifying his cult hero status. Injuries test him sparingly, but he bounces back fiercer, logging high minutes and proving Premier League class.
2025-26 Season Highlights So Far
In 2025-26, Ndiaye opens with a brace in Everton’s thrilling win over Newcastle, dances past Manchester City defenders for a wondergoal, and delivers pinpoint assists in Merseyside derbies, propelling Everton up the table. As February 2026 unfolds, he chases Everton Transfer News double digits in goals, with stats showing 5 strikes and 2 assists in 20 games, reflecting peak form amid a squad revival. Analysts predict a breakout year, as Ndiaye’s confidence soars, blending Sheffield hunger with Marseille polish.
International Career with Senegal
Senegal calls up Ndiaye for the first time on June 4, 2022, substituting him in a 3-1 World Cup qualifier win over Benin, and he cements his spot for Qatar 2022, playing 3 matches en route to round of 16 exit, gaining vital experience against global elites. Fast-forward, he stars in AFCON 2025 triumph in Morocco, clinching Senegal’s second title with key contributions that showcase his big-game mentality, adding international silverware to his resume. Ndiaye proudly dons the Lions of Teranga colors, balancing club duties with national pride, as his pace and finishing trouble African defenses relentlessly.
Additionally, post-World Cup, Ndiaye becomes a starter, scoring in qualifiers and qualifiers while assisting Mané successors, embodying Senegal’s golden generation extension. His debut goal drought ends with screamers in CAN qualifiers, and AFCON 2025 glory—capped by a semi-final stunner—elevates his legend. Consequently, Senegal eyes World Cup 2026 glory with Ndiaye central.
World Cup and AFCON Moments
At Qatar 2022, Ndiaye hustles in octavos, tackles fiercely, and links play smoothly despite Senegal’s exit; AFCON 2025 sees him dismantle hosts Morocco with a hat-trick in semis, lifting the trophy amid ecstatic celebrations. These tournaments forge him into a leader, as captains entrust him with set-pieces and attacks.
Playing Style and Strengths
Ndiaye dazzles with right-wing mastery, exploding past full-backs with blistering acceleration, executing rainbow flicks, and unleashing thunderous right-footed rockets from distance that ripple nets spectacularly. Defenders fear his low center of gravity, quick feet, and vision for killer passes, as he drops shoulders, nutmegs foes, and creates overloads Karen Carney Wife intelligently; moreover, his pressing ferocity wins balls high, sparking counters that punish errors swiftly. At 180cm, he leaps for headers, tracks back diligently, and adapts positions—winger, No. 10, striker—making him a tactical dream.
Furthermore, Ndiaye’s mentality shines: he relishes boos, thrives in duels (winning 60%+), and celebrates humbly, earning respect universally. Coaches laud his football IQ, as he reads games, exploits spaces, and delivers in clutch moments, blending flair with functionality seamlessly.
Stats and Achievements Breakdown
| Season/Club | League Apps | League Goals | League Assists | Total Apps | Total Goals | Total Assists | Key Honors |
| Hyde United 2019-20 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Loan Debut Goal |
| Sheffield Utd 2020-21 (PL) | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | PL Debut |
| Sheffield Utd 2021-22 (Ch) | 32 | 7 | 2 | 35 | 7 | 2 | Promotion Push |
| Sheffield Utd 2022-23 (Ch) | 46 | 14 | 11 | 52 | 15 | 12 | Promoted to PL |
| Marseille 2023-24 | 30 | 3 | 3 | 46 | 4 | 3 | UCL/Europa Run |
| Everton 2024-25 | 33 | 9 | 0 | 37 | 11 | 0 | Survival Key |
| Everton 2025-26 (to Feb 2026) | 20 | 5 | 2 | 22 | 5 | 2 | Top Form |
| Career Total | 163 | 39 | 18 | 194 | 43 | 19 | AFCON 2025 Winner |
Ndiaye’s stats scream elite: 43 career goals, 19 assists in 194 games, with spikes at Sheffield (22G/14A in 88 apps) and Everton (16G in 59 apps). Internationally, 3 World Cup apps, AFCON heroics.
Transfer History and Market Value
Boreham Wood signs Ndiaye first in 2017, Sheffield grabs him for peanuts in 2019 before Marseille pays £15M+ in 2023, and Everton splurges €20M+ in 2024 amid relegation battles. Now valued at €43.2M, suitors like Arsenal and PSG circle, but he commits to Toffees’ project loyally.
Injuries and Setbacks Overcome
Minor knocks sideline Ndiaye briefly at Marseille and Everton, but he returns stronger, missing few games overall and using rehab to refine fitness, ensuring availability peaks in 2025-26.
Off the Pitch: Personal Life and Interests
Ndiaye keeps life private, cherishing family time, Senegalese roots, and faith, while engaging fans via social media with goal clips and humble posts. He Wrexham AFC supports youth academies in Rouen and Dakar, mentors kids, and enjoys music, fashion, and recovery workouts.
Future Prospects and Predictions
At 25, Ndiaye eyes Everton top-10 finish, World Cup 2026 glory, and Ballon d’Or contention if goals surge past 20. Premier League stardom awaits, potentially at bigger clubs soon.
FAQs on Iliman Ndiaye
1. Who is Iliman Ndiaye, and where does he play right now?
Iliman Ndiaye, born March 6, 2000, in Rouen, France, to a Senegalese father and French mother, plays as a right winger wearing No. 10 for Everton FC in the Premier League, where he has scored 16 goals in 59 appearances across 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons as of February 2026; additionally, he represents Senegal internationally, winning AFCON 2025 and featuring in World Cup 2022, making him a dual-threat star blending explosive pace, dribbling mastery, and goal-scoring prowess that has captivated fans across continents from Sheffield United to Marseille and now Goodison Park.
2. What are Iliman Ndiaye’s career statistics to date?
Ndiaye boasts impressive career totals of 163 league appearances with 39 goals and 18 assists, expanding to 194 total games across all competitions with 43 goals and 19 assists up to February 10, 2026, including standout spells like 22 goals in 88 Sheffield games, 4 in 46 at Marseille, and 16 in 59 at Everton; his international record shines with AFCON 2025 victory contributions and 3 World Cup 2022 outings, reflecting consistent growth from non-league loans to Premier League mainstay status.
3. How did Iliman Ndiaye start his professional football journey?
Ndiaye kicks off professionally by signing his first contract with Boreham Wood FC on November 17, 2017, followed by a loan to Hyde United in 2019-20 where he scores on debut, then Sheffield United snaps him up on August 31, 2019, launching him into Malo Gusto Championship battles with rapid adaptation and breakthroughs like his two-goal debut against Peterborough; these early steps build resilience, exposing him to English non-league grit before exploding into senior stardom.
4. What achievements mark Iliman Ndiaye’s time at Sheffield United?
During 2020-27 with Sheffield United, Ndiaye plays 88 total games, scoring 22 goals and providing 14 assists, highlighted by 14 goals and 11 assists in the 2022-23 Championship promotion season, his Premier League debut in 2021, and iconic solo goals that earn crowd favorite status at Bramall Lane, propelling the Blades back to the top flight through sheer individual brilliance and team synergy.
5. Why did Iliman Ndiaye join Olympique de Marseille, and how did he perform?
Marseille signs Ndiaye in summer 2023 for a hefty fee post-Sheffield promotion, seeking his flair for Ligue 1 and Europe, where he delivers 30 league games with 3 goals and 3 assists plus 16 European outings and 1 goal in 46 total appearances during 2023-24, adapting to high-pressing tactics, impressing defensively, and laying groundwork for Premier League return despite team inconsistencies.
6. How has Iliman Ndiaye impacted Everton since arriving in 2024?
Everton recruits Ndiaye in 2024 to bolster attack amid survival fights, and he responds with 9 league goals in 33 games (2024-25) plus 5 goals and 2 assists in 20 games (2025-26 to Feb), totaling 16 goals in 59 apps, key saves like braces against Newcastle, and ESPN noting him as Moyes’ survival key through pace, pressing, and clutch strikes.
7. What is Iliman Ndiaye’s international record with Senegal?
Ndiaye debuts for Senegal on June 4, 2022, in a World Cup qualifier, plays 3 games at Qatar 2022 reaching octavos, and clinches AFCON 2025 in Morocco with pivotal goals including semi-final heroics, establishing himself as a Lions starter blending French technique with African heart for continental dominance.
8. What makes Iliman Ndiaye’s playing style unique?
Ndiaye thrives as a right winger with right-foot dominance, 180cm frame for aerial wins, explosive acceleration for solo runs, silky dribbles like rainbows and nutmegs, long-range rockets, visionary assists, and ferocious pressing that regains possession high; his adaptability across forward roles and 60%+ duel success rate make him a complete, entertaining threat.
9. Has Iliman Ndiaye faced major injuries, and how did he recover?
Ndiaye endures minor knocks at Marseille and Everton, missing limited games but using downtime for targeted training that enhances fitness and explosiveness, returning sharper each time to peak in 2025-26 with consistent minutes and form, exemplifying professionalism.
10. What are Iliman Ndiaye’s future prospects and market value?
Valued at €43.2M at age 25, Ndiaye targets Everton top-10, World Cup 2026 glory, and 20+ goal seasons, with interest from Arsenal/PSG; his trajectory suggests Ballon d’Or contention if consistency holds, building on AFCON win and Premier League resurgence for superstar status.
To Get More Info: Scotland Journal
