Thierno Barry, The French Striker Redefining Himself in the Premier League
After years of rejection and setbacks, Thierno Barry has finally found his footing in the English football league. A midfielder-turned-forward who joined Everton from Villarreal last year for £27m, Barry has proven himself as a talented goal-scorer with four goals in his last five Premier League games. The 31-year-old Frenchman's impressive form has seen him become an integral part of David Moyes' team.
Barry's journey to the top was not without its challenges. His early days were marked by struggles, including two red cards in his first two appearances for Swiss club Basel. After a disappointing spell in Belgium, where he scored 20 goals but failed to replicate that success in Switzerland, Barry retreated from football to rediscover his passion. A chance encounter with a group of young boys on Zanzibar beach reignited his love for the game, and after returning to Basel, he emerged as a different player.
The turning point came when Villarreal took notice of Barry's resurgence, offering him a £27m move to Merseyside. Initially, however, it was an uphill battle in England, with 16 games without a goal and no shots on target until December. Despite the setbacks, Moyes' faith in his player never wavered, and the rewards are now being reaped.
Barry's personal mantra, "I dream big," has driven him to succeed despite years of rejection as a teenager. His story is one of perseverance and determination, having started without an academy spot and eventually finding success at Sochaux before moving on to various clubs. At 31, Barry remains focused on fulfilling his goal of playing in the Premier League for many years.
His approach to football is unorthodox but effective. With a personal trainer, nutritionist, two physios, and a chef all part of his support team, Barry's dedication to fitness is evident. Even when he scores goals, he knows that success is not just about individual achievements but also the love and support he receives from fans, family, and friends.
For Barry, football has become more than just a game; it's a means to connect with others and create lasting memories. When asked if he will seek solace in another kickabout on Formby beach the next time he loses his passion for the game, he responded with a smile: "I play with my little baby," having found a sense of purpose and happiness both on and off the pitch.
After years of rejection and setbacks, Thierno Barry has finally found his footing in the English football league. A midfielder-turned-forward who joined Everton from Villarreal last year for £27m, Barry has proven himself as a talented goal-scorer with four goals in his last five Premier League games. The 31-year-old Frenchman's impressive form has seen him become an integral part of David Moyes' team.
Barry's journey to the top was not without its challenges. His early days were marked by struggles, including two red cards in his first two appearances for Swiss club Basel. After a disappointing spell in Belgium, where he scored 20 goals but failed to replicate that success in Switzerland, Barry retreated from football to rediscover his passion. A chance encounter with a group of young boys on Zanzibar beach reignited his love for the game, and after returning to Basel, he emerged as a different player.
The turning point came when Villarreal took notice of Barry's resurgence, offering him a £27m move to Merseyside. Initially, however, it was an uphill battle in England, with 16 games without a goal and no shots on target until December. Despite the setbacks, Moyes' faith in his player never wavered, and the rewards are now being reaped.
Barry's personal mantra, "I dream big," has driven him to succeed despite years of rejection as a teenager. His story is one of perseverance and determination, having started without an academy spot and eventually finding success at Sochaux before moving on to various clubs. At 31, Barry remains focused on fulfilling his goal of playing in the Premier League for many years.
His approach to football is unorthodox but effective. With a personal trainer, nutritionist, two physios, and a chef all part of his support team, Barry's dedication to fitness is evident. Even when he scores goals, he knows that success is not just about individual achievements but also the love and support he receives from fans, family, and friends.
For Barry, football has become more than just a game; it's a means to connect with others and create lasting memories. When asked if he will seek solace in another kickabout on Formby beach the next time he loses his passion for the game, he responded with a smile: "I play with my little baby," having found a sense of purpose and happiness both on and off the pitch.