One defining moment from Marcus Tavernier’s childhood remains etched in his memory, a night that could have ended in tragedy. As a young boy, Marcus faced the terrifying experience of a burglary at his family home in Bradford. In the face of danger, his older brother, James, wrapped a protective arm around him, shielding him from harm and proving that brotherly love knows no bounds.
This article tells the story of Marcus Tavernier, a footballer who grew up in a tough council estate where challenges were part of daily life. Bernie, his faraway dad, and his ever-caring brother, James, together, created a foundation of support that shaped Marcus into the man and footballer he is today.
Moments That Matter: A Photo Journey Through Marcus Tavernier’s Life. Image Credit: _MarcusTavv
Preamble:
Indeed, life wasn’t easy for Marcus, even as he discovered his passion for football by following in James’s footsteps. Once a promising schoolboy, Marcus experienced a crushing setback when he was released by Newcastle, a heartbreak no child should endure. All the effort his stepdad had poured into taking James to training and supporting the family’s football dreams seemed wasted in that moment.
Despite the challenges, he refused to give up, and today, fans celebrate his incredible rise and our job here is to the story of how Marcus Tavernier rose from life’s trials to achieve his dreams.
Our goal is to ignite your passion for football stories, and what better way to do so than by diving into Marcus Tavernier’s inspiring journey? Let’s start by sharing a photo gallery that beautifully captures his transformation—from being Bernie’s cherished little baby to a charming young boy and, ultimately, to achieving his dream in the beautiful game. Marcus Tavernier’s story is one of growth, determination, and triumph—a remarkable journey through life and football.
From Baby Steps to Big Dreams: A Journey of Struggles, Growth and Triumph—Marcus Tavernier’s Path to Football Fame. Credit: x/James_Tavernier/
Childhood Story:
To kick off his biography, Marcus Joseph Tavernier is his full name. The English professional footballer was born on March 22, 1999, to his mother, Bernie Tavernier, in the city of Leeds, United Kingdom. At the time of his birth, the football world was abuzz with the knockout stages of the 1998–99 UEFA Champions League. Not far from his birthplace, in the neighbouring city of Manchester, the iconic Manchester United was making headlines, advancing through the competition on their way to an unforgettable treble-winning season.
Little Marcus, as he cuddles his favourite teddy bear—pure innocence wrapped in one adorable moment! Credit: X/James_Tavernier
Three years before Marcus Joseph Tavernier was born, his mum was a single parent, having separated from his father when his older brother, who is seven years older, was just four. Eventually, Bernie and her husband rekindled their relationship, and they had Marcus, but things still didn’t work out between them. Despite this, both Marcus and his brother were raised by their loving white British mother, who has been a constant source of care and support throughout their lives. The bond between the Tavernier brothers and their mum is truly heartwarming, with her teaching them the importance of having a strong mind as she raised them. She remains an important and influential figure in their lives to this day.
A tender moment: Marcus’ brother James Tavernier holds his mum close, with love written in both of their eyes, reflecting the deep bond they share. Image Credit: X/James_Tavernier
Marcus Tavernier’s mixed heritage is reflected in his appearance, hinting at an Afro-Caribbean or African father. While his father’s identity and photos have remained private, there’s more to the story. In 2022, when Marcus’ brother’s club, Rangers F.C., celebrated their Scottish League Cup win, both Marcus and their dad joined in the celebrations, with his father playing a significant role in the joyous occasion. Although Bernie Tavernier, Marcus’ mum, raised him as a single parent, his dad has always maintained a connection with both Marcus and his brother James, ensuring his presence in their lives.
A proud moment: Marcus Tavernier’s dad joins his older brother James in celebrating the Scottish League Cup victory, sharing the joy of a hard-earned triumph. Credit: Rangers Clips
Marcus’s dad, known as Tavernier Senior, works as a truck driver. During the coronavirus lockdown, he was praised for his selfless service. He was one of the many drivers who risked their lives to keep the country going. Tavernier Senior played a key role in delivering food and essential supplies to those in need, especially people who couldn’t leave their homes.
Growing Up Years:
Marcus Joseph Tavernier had tough childhood memories, growing up in a challenging housing estate in Bradford. His parents didn’t raise him together, as his dad didn’t live with them. Although his dad stayed in his life, not having him around at home made for a difficult childhood. Football became Marcus’s escape, where he found solace. Despite the distance, his dad always made it clear he was there for him. Marcus grew up as a carefree child, with his big brother and mum always looking out for him.
Little Marcus, full of emotion as a toddler, pointing to the camera with a look that says it all—perhaps on the brink of tears, but already showing a spark of personality. Credit: X/James_Tavernier
As their mum, Bernie, made countless sacrifices, working tirelessly to provide for the family, James Tavernier, as the older brother, took on the responsibility of looking after little Marcus. Bernie instilled in her eldest son the mindset of caring for his younger brother. At this time, Marcus was just a baby. James learned from his mother how to properly prepare formula milk and feed it to his brother. Despite being seven years younger, Marcus’s older brother, James, often took on a fatherly role, supporting their mum in caring for Marcus when she had other responsibilities.
A moment of pure love: James gently feeds his little brother, Marcus, as a baby, showing the bond of brotherhood and the selfless care that shaped their childhood. Credit: X/James_Tavernier
Young Marcus didn’t just have his big brother James looking after him when their mum was busy with work or house chores. James was more than just a caregiver—he was a protector. In fact, there was a time when James stepped in to shield Marcus from real, life-threatening danger, proving his unwavering love and commitment as an older brother.
Did you know? Marcus once witnessed his older brother James protecting him during a terrifying burglary at their home when they were just kids. Scared and vulnerable, Marcus found comfort as James threw a protective arm around him, shielding him from the robbers who posed a threat. Growing up in a rough council estate where the crime was common, and homes were often burgled shaped both brothers mentally, making them tougher and more resilient. Life wasn’t always perfect for young Marcus Tavernier—it was filled with its fair share of challenges and hardships.
But one thing remained certain: Marcus was always a happy kid who received 100% love and affection from his brother, mum, and faraway dad. The smile he showed here is a pure reflection of the care and support he got from them.
A heartwarming moment: Young Marcus Tavernier holding his favourite teddy bear. That was a symbol of the love and comfort that surrounded him during his childhood. Credit: X/James_Tavernier
Early Life (Football):
As a young boy, Marcus found himself deeply drawn to football, inspired by his older brother, James, who was both a role model and a guiding figure in his life. James set the tone early, leading by example when he joined Farsley Celtic, a local team from their childhood. Watching James play and excel ignited Marcus’s own passion for the game.
The brothers shared a love for football legends Cafu and Dani Alves. They admired their skills and style so much that they couldn’t stop talking about them. For James, especially, Alves’s tricks on the pitch were mesmerizing. The two boys would often dream big, imagining themselves playing for Brazil, simply because their brown skin made them feel a connection to the Brazilian stars they idolized.
Their mum, Bernie, gently reminded them that they weren’t from South America and couldn’t represent Brazil, but that didn’t stop their imaginations from running wild. These moments became a cherished part of Marcus’s early journey in football, shaped by his brother’s influence and their shared love for the beautiful game.
The Tavernier brothers’ football journey began during their childhood in Leeds. At the time, Marcus was just a toddler, seven years younger, often strapped into a four-wheeled pram he couldn’t wait to escape from. All he wanted was to stay and watch his older brother play.
Their mum worked late shifts, so when the family later moved to Newcastle, their stepdad often stepped in to help. He would take James to training sessions, with Marcus tagging along as usual. Watching James on the pitch became a defining part of Marcus’s childhood. It was clear his love for football came from his brother’s influence.
After watching James play several times, Marcus knew exactly what he wanted to do. His brother’s dedication and passion lit a spark in him, setting the foundation for his own journey in the sport.
Joining Newcastle:
Marcus was too young to join his brother James during his time at Farsley Celtic and Leeds United. However, their paths aligned when both brothers were accepted into Newcastle’s Academy. This significant step for the Tavernier brothers started with James, thanks to a twist of local pride sparked by the late Glenn Roeder.
Although Roeder was originally from Essex, he had a deep connection to Newcastle as a proud Geordie (a native of Tyneside in the northeast of England). When he learned that James Tavernier, a talented young player shining in Leeds United’s youth setup, actually lived in Newcastle, it didn’t sit well with him. Determined to bring James back to represent his hometown club, Roeder acted quickly, ensuring the Tyneside club corrected this oversight—and that’s how both James and Marcus found their way into Newcastle Academy, beginning a new chapter in their football journey.
Before their stepdad started helping, their mum, Bernie, handled the long drives to training every Tuesday and Thursday night. They’d eat packed lunches during the ride and often fall asleep on the way back home. No matter the weather—rain, sun, or snow—Bernie always made it happen. She truly was a superwoman.
Bernie not only supported them physically but also kept her sons grounded. She played a huge role in building the foundation for their careers. She knew how easy it was to take the wrong path in life, so she always reminded them: if they wanted to be footballers, they had to commit fully and give 100%.
Road to Fame Story:
One of the most painful moments in Marcus Tavernier’s childhood came when he was released by Newcastle, his boyhood club. It was a tough blow for a talented young footballer with big dreams. Reflecting on the experience in an interview with the Scottish Daily Record, Marcus shared:
“I remember sitting in my bathroom, crying for half an hour because all I wanted to do was play football. My brother talked to me and told me to keep pushing, to try other clubs, and to find that fighting spirit. That conversation lifted me up.”
Not long after, Marcus received a call from Middlesbrough, and his journey took a new turn. “I haven’t looked back since,” he said. “Even then, my brother was giving me great advice. It’s always been that way—he’s the first person I go to whenever I need help or have questions.”
Marcus’s older brother, James, faced his own challenges in his football career. Unlike Marcus, James wasn’t released from Newcastle, but breaking into Alan Pardew’s first team was a tough battle. This was a Newcastle United squad filled with big names like Andy Carroll, Kevin Nolan, Hatem Ben Arfa, and Fabricio Coloccini, which made breaking into the team even tougher.
What stood out to Marcus was James’s mental strength. Nothing ever seemed to faze him—not even being denied the chance to prove himself at Newcastle. While Marcus found his path with Middlesbrough, James embraced a long journey of loan spells, determined to keep going. That perseverance eventually led him to Rangers, where he cemented his place as a club legend.
Life Beyond Newcastle:
After his release from Newcastle, Marcus followed his brother’s advice and kept moving forward. He attended a six-week trial at Middlesbrough, passed it, and never looked back.
In 2017, to his family’s delight, Marcus achieved his dream of graduating from the academy and becoming a professional footballer. He joined Tony Pulis’ Middlesbrough team, which included players like Patrick Bamford (on loan from Leeds), Martin Braithwaite (CF), Adama Traoré, and Jack Harrison.
Marcus thrived at Rockliffe, Middlesbrough’s training facility and sports complex, becoming a key part of the club’s setup.
Tav, full of passion and determination, battles against Spurs in his Boro shirt—a moment that embodies his relentless spirit.
To gain more game time, Marcus Tavernier joined EFL League One side Milton Keynes Dons on January 17, 2018. Fans often remember this club for nurturing talents like Dele Alli. Marcus made just seven appearances before Middlesbrough recalled him.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Marcus stayed with his mum and stepdad. Later, under Chris Wilder’s leadership at Middlesbrough, he played a key role alongside Djed Spence and Chuba Akpom. Together, they helped the club secure a 4th-place finish in the Championship and reach the Play-offs Semi-finals.
Rise to Premier League Stardom:
Marcus’s standout performances at Middlesbrough earned him a five-year move to Bournemouth, then managed by Scott Parker.
Reflecting on his Premier League debut, Marcus shared who was there to support him:
“Obviously, my brother James couldn’t make it because he had a game against Kilmarnock. But my mum and dad came down, which was amazing. They’ve supported me since I was a little kid.”
He added,
“It was great to have them there. Hopefully, they’re proud of me, and I’ve made them happy.”
Since his dream Premier League debut, Marcus Tavernier has become a key player for Bournemouth. He played a crucial role in Gary O’Neil’s attacking trio, supporting Dominic Solanke and Kieffer Moore.
When Andoni Iraola took over as manager, he immediately placed his trust in Tavernier, who continued to impress with his performances. As I write this biography, Marcus Tavernier’s Bournemouth team, featuring talents like Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez, is one of the most exciting sides in the Premier League. With Marcus showing consistent improvement season after season, many fans believe he’s earned a call-up to Thomas Tuchel’s England squad. The rest, as they say, is history.
The Bond That Shapes a Career: Marcus and James Tavernier:
To truly understand Marcus Tavernier, it’s essential to explore his roots and the profound influence his older brother, James, has had on his life and career. Their story is one of brotherly love, mutual respect, and unwavering support. Given how close they’ve been since childhood, many football fans have wondered if the Tavernier brothers, Marcus and James, are twins. But they’re not, as James is actually 7 years and 5 months older than Marcus.
Throwback to a time when young Marcus and James Tavernier were inseparable, sharing a bond that’s only grown stronger over the years! Credit: X/James_Tavernier
James has always been more than just a sibling to Marcus; he’s been a mentor and a guide. Whenever James comes to watch Marcus play, he doesn’t shy away from giving constructive feedback if Marcus hasn’t had his best game. However, his approach is never negative—he focuses on helping Marcus improve, offering advice in a way that uplifts rather than discourages.
Their relationship is a two-way street. While James has often been the one giving advice, there have been moments when Marcus has stepped up to support his older brother during tough times. They act as each other’s sounding boards, always ready to listen, encourage, and push each other to greater heights.
Marcus has a natural ability to sense when his brother, James, is struggling or not quite himself. He always tries to encourage James to take a break from football, reminding him to step away for a day and come back refreshed. He shared that James is his own harshest critic, someone who can be hard on himself at times. It’s in these moments that Marcus steps in to offer support and remind his brother to ease up and find balance.
Marcus Tavernier: The Man Behind the Footballer:
Many fans have asked, who is Marcus Tavernier off the field?
From what we know, Marcus is a grounded and calm individual with no public signs of being in a relationship as of 2024. He leads a simple, normal life when he’s not on the pitch. But when it’s game time, he transforms into a fighter—brave, courageous, and full of determination. While fans often find cuteness and charm when rating a player’s attractiveness, Marcus stands out not just for his looks but for his intelligence on the field. His strategic play adds depth to his appeal, making his handsomeness even more noticeable.
Strolling with confidence and exuding charm and style. His handsome features and athletic build make him a favourite for those who appreciate a well-rounded, brown-skinned athlete. Pic: X/_MarcusTavv
Untold Facts:
In this final phase of the biography, we’ll uncover more truths and insights. Without further ado, let’s dive in.
Unraveling the Mystery of Marcus Tavernier’s Ancestry and Heritage:
In February 2024, SevenFootballers, an Instagram football platform with around 10.2K followers, shared unverified details about Marcus Tavernier’s second nationality. According to their post, the left-winger has Malaysian roots through his grandparents, specifically on his mother’s side. They claimed his grandparents are from Malacca, a city and the capital of the coastal state of Malacca in southwestern Malaysia.
Unverified reports suggest the Bournemouth star has Malaysian heritage through his maternal grandparents. Pic Credit: Instagram/sevenfootballers
The post quickly sparked reactions from fans, with many voicing their thoughts and questioning the accuracy of the claims. Among the responses, a follower named “Curiilly” argued that Marcus Tavernier is of Nigerian descent. They claimed his nationality is British with Nigerian heritage, not Malaysian.
Fan debates spark after claims of Marcus Tavernier’s Malaysian roots, with one follower asserting his Nigerian heritage—what’s your take? Credit: Instagram/sevenfootballers
What we do know is that Marcus and James were raised by their mother, who appears to be White British based on her complexion. On the other hand, their biological dad, seen celebrating a Rangers trophy victory with James, has a darker complexion, suggesting he is Black. This implies his heritage could be British with roots in Africa or the Caribbean.
In summary, Marcus Tavernier’s exact ancestry remains unconfirmed. We’d love to hear your thoughts on this—feel free to share your views in the comment section!
FC 25 Stats:
Marcus is the type of footballer who brings balance to his team, whether in defence or attack. What makes him special is his versatility. He’s a box-to-box midfielder who excels on both wings. Aside from goalkeeping, Marcus’s football skills are well above average. The only areas he lacks in are aggression and heading accuracy. According to SOFIFA, his biggest strengths are his short power (86%) and stamina (82%), which make him irresistible to managers. His playing style is reminiscent of Marcos Llorente and Albert Simbi-Lokonga. Fans believe he deserves more than the 77% overall and 79 rating he received in EA SPORTS FC 25.
He is a versatile box-to-box midfielder who brings balance to his team with incredible stamina and short power. A true force on both wings. Credit: SOFIFA
Marcus Tavernier Salary
Fans have often wondered about Marcus Tavernier’s salary at Bournemouth and how it compares to his teammates. After some research, Capology, a reliable source for player salaries, provided some insight. According to the platform, Marcus, along with Dango Ouattara and Max Aarons, earns £35,000 per week and £1,820,000 annually. As of 2024, Bournemouth’s highest earners are Evanilson (£85,000 weekly, £4,420,000 annually), Justin Kluivert (£80,000 weekly, £4,160,000 annually), and Kepa Arrizabalaga (£75,000 weekly, £3,900,000 annually).
On the Pitch, he’s a star and off the pitch, he’s one of Bournemouth’s Lowest Earners. Despite his talent, Marcus stays humble with his earnings. Source: Capology
Marcus Tavernier Tattoo Meaning:
The English professional footballer, is known for his body art, with one tattoo recently gaining attention. On his left calf, he has a tattoo that reads, “Everything is possible for the one who believes.” These words reflect his personality, serving as a reminder of his determination and courage to face any challenge in his career, with the belief that he will always emerge victorious.
Fueling his journey with belief and courage, Marcus shows us that anything is possible with the right mindset. Source: X/_MarcusTavv
Marcus Tavernier Religion:
Throughout his interviews and social media, Marcus has not explicitly stated his religious affiliation. However, according to the 2021 Census for England and Wales, 46.2% of the population identified as Christian. Given this majority, it’s plausible that Marcus may share this belief, though this remains speculative.
Endnote:
Born to a single mother after his parents split, Marcus faced early challenges but found support and guidance from both parents, especially his mother, Bernie. Growing up on a rough council estate, Marcus witnessed tough times, including his house being burgled when he was a kid. Despite these challenges, he remained close to his older brother, James, who played a significant role in shaping his character and offering advice.
A pivotal moment in Marcus’s career came when he was released by Newcastle United. However, instead of being defeated, he used the setback as fuel to push forward, eventually impressing at Middlesbrough, where he would rise to prominence. His performances at Boro earned him a move to Bournemouth, where he continued to make a significant impact.
Throughout it all, Marcus’s strength of character, grounded upbringing, and unbreakable bond with his family, notably his brother, James, have shaped him into the player and person he is today. From being the rejected kid at Newcastle to becoming Bournemouth’s rising star, Marcus Tavernier now has a clear goal: to help the team break their current Premier League points record of 46, set in the 2016/2017 season under Eddie Howe.
Appreciation Note:
Thank you for reading Marcus Tavernier’s story. We strive for accuracy and fairness in sharing football stories of notable midfielders, just like we have with players like Houssem Aouar and James Ward-Prowse. If you notice anything that doesn’t seem right in this article about Marcus, please let us know. We’d also love to hear your thoughts on his career and fascinating journey in the comments section!
