Footballer with a Tough Past: Edmond Tapsoba’s Hidden Life Story

When talking about underappreciated, hard-working African central defenders who have emerged since the post-COVID era, Edmond Tapsoba is a name that stands out. This article tells the story of a determined young boy from Burkina Faso who defied the odds to lift his family out of poverty. Edmond became a man well before he turned 18, driven by a resolve to support his family from his early teenage years. Even as a young boy, he used his talent to earn money and help his household.

Explore the captivating life of Edmond Tapsoba beyond just his football career. This article uncovers the untold stories of his childhood, upbringing, and family dynamics. You’ll gain insight into the influences that shaped his character, including his parents, Gilbert and Rachel Tapsoba, as well as his roots, ethnicity, and hometown. This narrative goes beyond his defensive skills—often showcased on YouTube—and offers a deeper look into his personal journey, passions, and the man behind the athlete.

Preamble:

Our version of Edmond Tapsoba’s bio begins by unveiling notable events from his childhood years. We will delve into his ethnic origin and early career highlights in Burkina Faso. In conclusion, we’ll narrate how the centre-back worked hard to make his dreams come true.

We’ll hope to whet your biography appetite as you read Edmond Tapsoba’s Bio. To do this, we’ve put together a collection of images that highlights the key moments in the athlete’s journey, capturing critical stages from his early days in football to his increasing prowess.

Edmond is a remarkable football player. In 2021, he was selected for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Team of the Tournament, and in January 2020, he earned the title of Primeira Liga Defender of the Month. People have likened Edmond’s playing style to that of Jérome Boateng, who is considered one of the top athletes in the centre-back position.

However, despite the incredible performance and accolades, not many fans have read about Edmond Tapsoba’s Biography. So, we have put together this motivating, inspiring article for you. Without hesitation, let’s dive in.

Edmond Tapsoba Childhood Story:

For Biography staters, he uses the nickname “Eddy”. While his full name is Edmond Faycal Tapsoba. The Centre-Back was born on the 2nd of February 1999 to his parents- his father, Gilbert Tapsoba, and his mother, Rachel Tapsoba, in Ouagadougou.

The footballer is the first child in the home with his four siblings, two girls and two boys. His birth marked the beginning of the joys of having a family in his mother and father’s marital union. Before we advance into this bio, let’s formally present Edmond Tapsoba’s parents. Although they had no wealth to pass on to their child, their constant prayers and love kept his fire to succeed alive.

Growing-Up Years:

Edmond Tapsoba had a simple but happy childhood in Ouagadougou with his family. He lived with his two sisters and two younger brothers in a house full of laughter and fun.

For young Eddy, Ouagadougou was a special place. Even though it was a small town with plain streets, it was always lively and colourful to him. People always laughed and talked, making them feel friendly and close.

In Edmond’s home, love was more important than money. His family didn’t have a lot of things, but they cared for each other a lot. He and his brothers and sisters would play and discover new places in their town together.

Life in a poor town was hard. But Edmond saw things differently because of his family’s love. They didn’t have much food, but meal times were still happy. His parents would tell stories and jokes, and everyone felt close and happy together. This love from his family made Edmond feel like he belonged and was loved.

Early Life:

It is important to note that none of Edmond Tapsoba’s family members were footballers. So, we can say that the centre-back was the one who began his sports career in his home. So the question is, how did Eddy get into football?

Tapsoba’s journey in football started casually. Playing with friends on the streets of Karpala, a lively neighbourhood in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso’s capital. These streets, bustling with the energy of everyday life, became his first playing field.

“That’s just how things are,” he explained, reflecting on his early experiences. Coming from a family with little money means that Tapsoba was aware of the need to contribute financially from a young age.

This sense of responsibility didn’t overshadow his passion for football but fueled his determination. Playing in the streets wasn’t just a pastime; it was a step towards supporting his family, blending his love for the game with the practical needs of his everyday life.

Edmond Tapsoba Family Background:

Tapsoba, hailing from Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso, grew up in a country facing financial challenges. His family’s economic situation mirrored the broader context of the nation’s struggle. Edmond Tapsoba’s father worked as a chauffeur for the mayor’s office, a modest but stable job.

Meanwhile, Edmond Tapsoba’s mother ran a small business. Which helped contribute as much as possible to the household income. So, simply put, the footballer’s family was poor.

Despite these humble beginnings, football was an opportunity that was more than just a chance to play football; it was a financial lifeline. Salitas FC paid its players, and Tapsoba could contribute financially to his family’s well-being.

This early experience instilled in him a strong sense of responsibility towards his family. “It’s always been like that – you fight and earn money for your family. I still do that now,” This has always been his mantra to help bring him home from poverty.

Edmond Tapsoba Family Origin:

Research on Edmond Tapsoba’s roots states that he was born in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Further research shows that his father and mother might also be natives of the same place.

What do we know about Edmond Tapsoba’s hometown, Ouagadougou? Key attractions about his birthplace are the Ouagadougou Cathedral, the National Museum of Burkina Faso, and several parks and markets offering insight into local culture and crafts.

Ethnicity:

Edmond belongs to the Mossi ethnic group, which speaks the Mòoré language. The Mossi are the biggest ethnic group in Burkina Faso, making up about half of the country’s population. In addition to the Moore language, French (spoken by the likes of Sadio Mane and Yaya Toure) is another language they speak.

Edmond Tapsoba Education:

Indeed, Edmond Tapsoba’s parents were not wealthy. So, it meant the resources to care for a family of five children wouldn’t be enough. Thus, it meant that the footballer could have completed his education.

However, he must have attended one of the government-funded, publicly-funded schools. He dived straight into football after he finished his primary education. Nonetheless, Eddy is fluent in his native language (Moore), French, and Portuguese. You could call him a polyglot.

Edmond Early Career:

The young centre-back began his football journey on the streets of Ouagadougou in his birth country, Burkina Faso. At this stage, it was just the ball with his friends and neighbours that he was interested in. Whenever there was a match in the area, you were sure to see the first son of Tapsoba.

However, it was pertinent to note that Burkinaina didn’t know he could make a career out of his passion. More or less, Edmond Tapsoba’s parents didn’t understand it either. At this point, they probably thought he was enjoying the game, too.

However, things changed as Eddy got to his adolescent period. So, what this means is that he didn’t join any sports academy or training as a child. Instead, he was enjoying the thrills of playing with his neighbours and friends.

Road to Fame Story:

In 2014/2015, the 12-year-old began his first football career in Salinas. It is also known as Salimata et Taséré FC. A club in Burkina Faso, located in Ouagadougou. It was here that Tapsoba started his formal training in sports education.

Furthermore, due to his improved performance, he was being paid stipends. You can imagine the pure ecstasy on the young man’s face when he realized how much his skills could earn him. According to reports from an interview, Eddy used the money to give back to his family.

The following year, in 2015/ 17, the centre back was sent to US Ouagadougou. This new team was still in Edmond Tapsoba’s hometown in Burkina Faso. That was not the only good news; in 2016, his nation’s team’s coach sent him a call-up letter to participate in the African games.

By this time, Edmond had transitioned into a professional footballer. He was no longer playing solely for enjoyment but representing his country in the sport. The story continues beyond this point, revealing further developments in Tapsoba’s career. Keep reading to learn more.

Edmond Tapsoba Biography – Rise to Fame Story:

The breakthrough for the West African footballer came in 2018 when a foreigner came from Portugal. The director of Salitas’s friend came and saw Eddy in the play, and he made a recommendation to Portuguese clubs. And that was how he offered to leave the shores of his country.

However, before the deal from Portugal came, Edmond was supposed to go to Belgium. But fate had other plans for him, even though his Visa was ready for the trip. The centre-back became a part of Leixoes SC’s under-19 team.

Leaving the shores of his country came with happiness and great distress. That was the first time Edmond was going out of Burkina Faso and away from his family. So, we would expect him to be homesick. However, the prospect it came with was enough reason to stay and continue his career.

Tapsoba stayed for a while in Leixoes before going to Vitória Guimarães SC B Division. The Burkinabe remained in the B team and played in 30 games with ten goals.

With his improved performance, he was promoted to the main squad on the 1st of Jul 2019. Eddy came in alongside Joao Pedro (Centre-Forward). After a football season, one major contract came through that was life-changing for him. The German club Bayer Leverkusen, under the management of Xabi Alonso, was interested in the Burkina Faso footballer.

Edmond Tapsoba in Bayer Leverkusen:

On January 31, 2020, Tapsoba signed a five-and-a-half-year contract with Bayer Leverkusen. The deal cost €18 million, plus an extra €7 million if certain goals are met. He scored his first goal in the Bundesliga during a game against FC Augsburg on February 21, 2021.

His goal in the very last moments tied the game, helping Leverkusen continue their 20-match unbeaten run against Augsburg. The 23/24 year centre-back is playing alongside Victor Boniface (CF), Jonathan Tah (CB), Jeremie Frimpong (RB), and Granit Xhaka (DM). Let’s not forget the fast-rising Exequiel Palacios and Piero Hincapie.

At the time of writing Edmond Tapsoba’s biography, the Burkina Faso native is one of the best athletes in the Bayer Leverkusen formation. From a continental perspective, one of his biggest career dreams is to win his country’s first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The rest, as we say, of the fast-rising Burkina Faso defender is now history.

Personal Life:

The German centre-back cherishes the moments he spends off the pitch. Particularly enjoying the company of friends at his home. Edmond’s personality reflects a laid-back and relaxed demeanour. This indicates someone who values life’s simpler joys, like socializing with close companions in a comfortable, familiar setting. This inclination towards a ‘chill’ lifestyle complements his rigorous professional-athlete routine.

Eddy’s dedication to fitness and exercise isn’t just a professional requirement; it’s a personal passion. This commitment to staying fit enhances his physical capabilities on the field and aligns with his overall approach to well-being.

Edmond Aquarius’s zodiac personality traits, which influence his interactions and relationships, could play a role in his warm and amiable nature. It aligns with qualities such as being caring, friendly, or empathetic. These characteristics could further explain his enjoyment of spending quality time with friends and being a loving, supportive figure in their lives.

Lifestyle:

Edmond Tapsoba comes from a simple background where family and being together were very important. He grew up in a house without much money, which taught him to always care for his family. This feeling of needing to help his family grew even more vital when he became a successful defender for Bayer Leverkusen.

As he became more famous in football, Tapsoba always put his family first. He uses the money he earns from playing to make sure his home has what it needs and is comfortable. The centre-back is thankful for all the support and sacrifices his family made for him.

Even though he’s a well-known footballer now, Tapsoba lives a simple life. The German footballer could live fancier but spends only a little money on himself. Instead, use his money in ways that help. He once said he would rather eat stones than see his family struggle.

Tapsoba’s choice to live simply, unlike some other rich footballers, shows how down-to-earth he is and how much he values his family. His decisions show he cares more about being there for his family than showing off his wealth.

Edmond Tapsoba Family Life:

Eddy is widely recognized as one of the outstanding defenders of his generation. He showcases a remarkable combination of skills that make him an adaptable player. Tapsoba’s success in football is not solely attributed to his natural talent but is also significantly influenced by the values his family instilled in him.

With a solid foundation grounded in principles of completeness, consistency, hard work, and versatility, Edmond has consistently delivered exceptional performances. It’s crucial to acknowledge that the support and guidance of Edmond Tapsoba’s family have played a pivotal role in shaping his character. In this section, let’s explore his family’s impact on his career.

About Edmond Tapsoba’s Father:

Edmond Tapsoba’s dad worked as a driver for the mayor’s office. It wasn’t a big job, but it paid regularly, which helped them get by. Even though they didn’t have much money, his dad took good care of everyone in the family – his wife and five kids. It was tough to support a family of seven with just one salary. But Tapsoba’s dad did it with hard work and never gave up.

They had to be careful with money in their home because there wasn’t much to go around. His dad’s job was important for basic things like food, clothes, and school costs. He worked hard and always brought home a paycheck, keeping the family going and ensuring they had a stable home.

Seeing all this, Edmond Tapsoba learned a lot about working hard and using what you have wisely. He saw how his dad struggled to give them what they needed and understood how important it was to be responsible and keep going, even when things were hard. This way of growing up helped Tapsoba become the focused and intense person he is now.

About Edmond Tapsoba’s Mother:

Alongside Edmond Tapsoba’s father, who worked as a chauffeur, his mother played a crucial role in supporting their family through her efforts. She ran a small business from their home, a venture that, although modest, significantly contributed to the family’s income. Her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication complemented the family’s financial resources.

In a household where every bit of income was essential. Tapsoba’s mother’s business wasn’t just a means of earning; it was a vital support system for the family. Her ability to generate additional income helped cover various expenses. This contribution was especially important in a family of seven, where the demands varied.

Tapsoba’s mother provided financial support through her business and set an example of hard work and resourcefulness. Her efforts in managing the business while caring for the family demonstrated a balance of entrepreneurship and nurturing, showcasing the importance of adaptability and perseverance.

Edmond Tapsoba’s Siblings:

Eddy comes from a family with five children. He has two brothers and two sisters, making him part of a relatively large and lively household. Growing up in such a family likely provided Edmond with a supportive and dynamic environment.

The presence of siblings often brings diverse experiences and perspectives. Which contributed to his personal and social development. In a household with five children, there are opportunities for collaboration, learning from each other, and developing strong familial bonds. This family structure could have significantly shaped Edmond’s character, resilience, and teamwork skills, which are crucial in his professional football career.

Edmond Tapsoba’s Relatives:

The professional footballer places great importance on his family’s privacy and chooses not to publicly disclose details about his extended family. This approach is driven by his intention to protect his loved ones from unnecessary public attention and scrutiny.

While specific information about his relatives remains private, it is understood that his connections with his family are significant to him.

Like most people, Edmond Tapsoba likely has aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins, nephews, nieces, and in-laws within his family circle.

However, the identities of these family members are kept out of the public eye, underscoring his dedication to maintaining a clear distinction between his professional life and private family affairs.

Untold Facts:

This section provides insights into lesser-known facts about the former US Ouagadougou footballer. Let’s explore these details without further delay.

About Edmond Tapsoba’s Religion:

According to the departments of US reports it shows that Muslims (predominantly Sunni) gain the highest number of worshippers in Edmond Tapsoba’s country. In contrast, 20.1 per cent are Roman Catholic, and the remaining are shared between Protestant groups and other indigenous beliefs.

However, his name, Edmond, has Hebrew/Christian origins, which means “protector or Rich, Fortunate. And one of the FB videos shows Edmond Tapsoba’s family praying.

About Edmond Tapsoba’s Salary:

The German footballer who used to earn peanuts in his early career has progressed massively. The new trophy winner since his contract with Bayer Leverkusen in 2023 is earning €96,154 gross per week and, at the same time, making €5,000,000 gross each year.

How Rich is Edmond Tapsoba?

The salary of 167,452 CFA in Burkina Faso is approximately 255.28 Euros. ​Meanwhile, the centre-back has been paid over €96,154. So it would take an average Burkinabe of 255.28 Euros per month to work for approximately 377 months, or about 31.39 years, to earn Edmond Tapsoba’s monthly salary.

Edmond Tapsoba FIFA:

The player of the month in January 2020, Tapsoba, has performed outstandingly as a Centre-Back for Bayer Leverkusen in the 2023/2024 season. His on-field skills demonstrate his impressive defensive capabilities and consistency throughout the season. When you check out his FIFA stats, it’s clear that his strongest football skill is his powerful standing tackle, a quality shared by rising talents like Leny Yoro.

His strengths are particularly evident in his power shots, stamina, and extraordinary interceptions during matches. Key aspects of his gameplay include his quick acceleration, defensive awareness, sliding tackle, balance, assertiveness, and long passes.

Moreover, his ratings in the FIFA video game are updated annually to reflect his real-life performance. As per the 2023 edition of SOFIFA, Tapsoba’s overall rating is marked at 81, with his potential predicted to rise to 85.

Summary:

Edmond Faycal Tapsoba, nicknamed “Eddy,” was born on February 2, 1999, in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. He is the eldest of five children born to his parents, Periko Alonso and his wife. Despite growing up in a modest household without wealth, Edmond’s parents provided a nurturing environment filled with love and encouragement.

Eddy spent his childhood in a lively, close-knit community in Ouagadougou. Despite financial challenges, his family’s warmth and the town’s vibrant atmosphere made his upbringing joyful. The Tapsoba household, though not wealthy, was rich in love and happiness.

None of Edmond’s family members were into football professionally, but he developed a passion for the sport early on. He started playing football casually with his friends in the streets of Karpala, a neighbourhood in Ouagadougou. This early exposure to football was not just a hobby for Edmond but a way to potentially contribute to his family’s income.

Edmond’s football journey began informally on the streets of his hometown. He was enthusiastic about the game but took time to consider it a career. However, as he entered his teens, his perspective shifted. He began playing more seriously but did not join any sports academies or receive formal training in his early years.

In 2014/2015, at 12, Edmond started his formal football career with Salitas FC in Ouagadougou. His improved performance at the club led to stipends, allowing him to contribute financially to his family. His career progressed, and he received a call-up to the national team in 2016. Edmond’s big break came in 2018 when he was spotted by a director from Portugal, leading to opportunities abroad, including joining Leixoes SC’s under-19 team.

In January 2020, Tapsoba signed a significant contract with Bayer Leverkusen, marking a major milestone in his career. His first Bundesliga goal for the team came in a crucial match against FC Augsburg in 2021. As of the writing of his biography, Edmond has achieved notable success, including being named in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Team of the Tournament and becoming an essential player for Bayer Leverkusen.

Acknowledgement:

We are genuinely grateful for the time you spent reading our article about Edmond Tapsoba. A footballer who transfers to other clubs is difficult to be sanctioned by Bayer 04 (OneFootball report). Your interest and interaction are highly valued, and we are delighted that you appreciate our ongoing efforts to bring engaging African football stories to you.

Edmond Tapsoba’s Biography is a key feature of our collection of Men’s football narratives. Please feel free to reach out to us with any further questions or comments regarding this biography.

In addition to Edmond Tapsoba’s Bio, we offer a variety of captivating football stories about African players for your enjoyment. You might find the life histories of players like Tahith Chong and Simon Adingra particularly intriguing.