Who is Mario Lemina when he’s not dazzling on the football field? Our article on Mario Lemina shares the story of a young boy whose life was turned upside down by the loss of his father. Mario describes this as the worst possible time, as he and his siblings were on the brink of achieving their career goals. The pain was overwhelming, as Mario was deeply connected to his father, and his sudden passing brought his world to a sudden halt.
Once again, we delve into the full story of a footballer whose marriage caused a major scandal in his career. The controversy erupted when the Gabonese player married a woman who had previously been linked to another famous athlete. This relationship led to significant disapproval, casting shadows over his football career and romantic choices, and leaving many with a negative view.
Inside Mario Lemina’s World: Brotherhood, Family and Love
Preamble:
Our version of Mario Lemina’s Biography begins by uncovering the remarkable events of his childhood. Then, we’ll delve into the early triumphs of Midfielder’s career. And finally, we’ll explore how this Gabonese talent ascended to become one of his country’s finest footballers.
We aim to spark your interest in autobiographies with this engaging piece on Mario Lemina’s story. Let’s start by exploring a gallery that vividly narrates his journey – from his childhood days to his rise to fame. Indeed, the footballer’s journey through life has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Behold Mario Lemina’s Biography- from his early years and his trophy winnings in Juventus. Images: Instagram/lems_family.
It’s well known that Mario Lemina is a strong, hardworking box-to-box midfielder, often played in the center due to his skill at initiating attacks after regaining possession. While exploring stories about Gabonese footballers, we realized that many fans are still unfamiliar with the fascinating biography of Mario Lemina. So, let’s jump right in and uncover his compelling story.
Mario Lemina Childhood Story:
For biography starters, his full name is Mario René Junior Lemina. The Defensive Midfield was born on the 1st of September 1993 to his French mother, Mrs Lemina, and his Gabonese father, Mr Lemina, in Gabon. The footballer is among five children in his parent’s marital union. Before we continue in this bio, let’s show you Mario Lemina’s parents, especially his father, whom he constantly credits his career to after every goal.
Meet Mario Lemina’s parents- Mrs Lemina and his Gabonese father, Mr Lemina. Photo: Facebook/StadiumGA.
Growing-Up Years:
Mario Lemina, growing up in Libreville, Gabon, would have had a childhood surrounded by the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of Central Africa. He was a middle child with three brothers, Noha Lemina, Kevin Lemina and Robson Lemina and an older sister, Halanne Lemina.
Behold Mario Lemina’s childhood with his brother, Kevin Lemina. Image: Instagram/lems_family.
Given his future as a professional footballer, it’s plausible that his early years were marked by a deep love for the game, playing football with friends and siblings in the neighbourhood streets or makeshift fields. Perhaps he learned the game by watching older kids and emulating their moves, gradually honing his skills and passion.
With dreams sparkling in his young eyes, Mario might have spent countless hours practising, often with a ball made from rags or found materials, displaying an early talent that made him stand out among his peers. Despite the challenges and limited resources, Mario Lemina’s parents were at the forefront of their children’s goals.
Here are some of Mario Lemina’s siblings as they chill in the poolside. Source: Instagram/lemsfamily.
This childhood, filled with laughter, play, and dreams, set the foundation for Mario Lemina’s future in football. Crafting a story of passion, resilience, and the joy of the game that would one day lead him to stadiums worldwide. His journey from the streets of Libreville to the international football stage is a testament to his talent, hard work, and the early life that shaped him.
Mario Lemina Early Life:
How did football begin in Mario Lemina’s family? Reports show that sports wasn’t a new thing to the house. As a matter of fact, his father, Mr Lemina, was a basketball lover. A skill that he passed on to his first daughter, Hannele (Mario Lemina’s sister). And so the older son and Noha were the ones who piqued the interest in football. From just kicking it as siblings passing way time, the Lemina boys began to visualise playing on an international stage.
In an interview, Mario reminisces about his childhood and recounts how he spends his time talking about his future in football. When he was done playing with his cousins and neighbours, he told them how he wished to play like one of the footballers they watched on the television.
How did Mario Lemina’s father deal with his sons going into football instead of basketball? If Mr. Lemina was disappointed, there are no records about that. All we can tell is the Gabonese was happy and aided his two boys down their career path.
Mario Lemina Family Background:
While Gabon is one of the more prosperous countries in Sub-Saharan Africa due to its oil and mineral reserves, Mario Lemina’s family might still face economic challenges.
They would need to navigate the complexities of life that come with fluctuating economies. What does this mean? It meant that Mario Lemina’s father would work twice as hard to raise a family of five in that region. He may have had multiple jobs, formal day-to-day work and a side business.
That’s how Mr Lemina managed to grow his household and their dream career. What about Mario Lemina’s mother? On the other hand, the French woman kept the home afloat when her husband was out struggling for daily bread.
At the same time, Mrs Lemina could also have had a job that assisted her household. Nonetheless, as the young Mario grew up, he saw the need to make sure his football career worked out. Firstly, he needed to fulfil his childhood dreams and, at the same time, help his family grow into wealth.
Family Origin:
Mario Lemina was born in Libreville, Gabon, and our findings show that Mario Lemina’s father is also a citizen of the country. So this strengthens the Gabonese nationality in Central Africa. However, Mario Lemina’s mother is a French citizen. There is no information on the actual place where Mrs Lemina was born. However, by virtue of birth, her son has the right to be a French citizen. The map shows the dual identity of the footballer.
The identities of Mario in his birthplace and that of his mother. Source: Britannica.
Libreville, the great capital and biggest city of Gabon, Mario Lemina’s hometown, offers a fascinating array of tourist attractions. The L’Eglise St-Michel Libreville, Waterfront Boulevard, and the National Museum of Arts and Traditions make it a delight for foreigners.
Mario Lemina’s Ethnicity:
By virtue of his birth in the central path of Africa and his dad’s nationality, Mario is a Gabonese. While from his mother’s roots, he is a French man. Thus, he is biracial.
Education:
Mario Lemina pursued a sports education in Rueil-Malmaison before completing his studies in Colombes. At the age of 15, he committed to the youth academy at Lorient. Unlike the other going for formal education in one of the schools in the Gabon area.
Mario Lemina Biography – Football Story:
The newbie was five years old, beginning with the local club in ES Nanterre in 2000. And then left for Sport-Etudes in Rueil-Malmaison and then went to Colombes. At 15 years old, he signed up with Lorient Youth Academy and later joined the first team.
On the 18th of Jan, 2013, the Gabonese went to the FC Lorient at the same time as Ryan Mason (Central Midfield). While Joel Campbell (Right Winger) for Arsenal after the end of a loan. In the 13/14 season, he left for Marseille. It was challenging for him to go through the ranks and finally make it to one of the clubs with a juicy offer. At this point, Mario Lemina’s father was by his side.
Road to Fame Story:
The following season, French club Marseille acquired Mario for €4 million. Other footballers like Florian Thauvin (Right Winger) and Benjamin Mendy (Left-Back) were among the arrivals with Lemina. He struggled with his new team in the first year. However, the following season, to put his skills to use, Mario went on loan to Juventus. In the Serie A league, he was playing alongside Alex Sandro (Left-Back) and Leonardo Spinazzola (Left-Back).
At the same time, he was replacing Andrea Pirlo, who was leaving for New York City FC. Kingsley Coman (Left Winger) and Angelo Ogbonna (Centre-Back) went to Bayern Munich and West Ham. During his stay at Juventus, the midfielder was among the Serie A trophies in 2015–16 and 2016–17. While also bagging the Coppa Italia in the same year and the UEFA Champions League runner-up in 2016–17. After 29 appearances and three goals, it was time for another transfer to Southampton.
The Gabonese player with his trophy together with his teammates. Image Credit: Instagram/lemsfamily.
Virgil van Dijk (Centre-Back) was going to Liverpool when the footballer was among the arrivals. At the same time, the midfielder received his call-up to represent his mother’s country, France. The Gabon-born player won the 2013 FIFA U-20 World Cup at the youth level with Paul Pogba and Harry Kane.
Mario Lemina Biography – Rise to Fame Story:
In the 19/20 season, Lemina joined Galatasaray on a loan deal. At the same time, Steven Nzonzi (Defensive Midfield) joined the arrivals with Mario. However, it only lasted a year before his loan transfer to Fulham. Mario’s breakthrough to the Premier League was with Ademola Lookman (Second Striker), Ruben Loftus Cheek, Josh Maja (Centre-Forward) and Steven Sessegnon (Right-Back). The Gabonese was on this team with an option to buy.
On the 7th of March, he scored his first goal, which lifted his team to the win for the first time in history. On the 31st of May, 2021, Lemina went to Southampton. In the same period, he played alongside Kyle Walker-Peters (Right-Back), Mohammed Salisu (Centre-Back), Theo Walcott (Right-Winger), Takumi Minamino (Left-Winger), and Cedric Soares (Right-Back). Three months later, the Libreville-born footballer became a teammate in OGC Nice.
The Defensive midfield was among the same arrivals: Calvin Stengs (Attacking Midfield), Jean-Clair Todibo (Centre-Back), and Justin Kluivert (Left Winger). In Ligue 1, Mario was part of the team with the Coupe de France runner-up in 21–22. Following his incessant transfers, the Gabonese made his way back to the EPL in the next season.
Mario joined Wolverhampton in the 22/23 football year. The now 29 years old baller came in the same transfer period as Matheus Nunes (Central Midfield), Gonçalo Guedes (Left Winger), Pablo Sarabia (Right Winger), and Matheus Cunha (Centre-Forward). Mario was replacing the position of Leander Dendoncker (Defensive Midfield), who went to Aston Villa.
At the time of writing Mario Lemina’s biography, he is described as the Black Panther in Europe. The Gabon-born has also chosen to represent his birth country in the national competition. And the rest is history, they said.
Who is Mario Lemina’s Wife?
Fanny Neguesha was born on the 10th of June, 1990, in Belgium. Her dad is from Italy, and her mom has roots in Congo, Rwanda, and Egypt. She can speak three languages well: French, Italian, and English. Fanny is from Belgium but lives in Paris, a big city known for fashion. There, she works as a model, dancer, and actress.
Meet Fanny Neguesha, the wife of the footballer, as she stands beside him. Image: IG/lemsfamily.
In the year, 2015, she was on the tenth season of an Italian TV show called L’Isola dei famosi. She has also worked on TV for the Trace Sport Stars channel. A year later, she started making music in France. Her first song, “Evasion,” with rapper Mac Tyler, was part of the soundtrack for the movie Pattaya, directed by Franck Gastambide.
Mario Lemina’s Marriage Scandal:
In 2012, Fanny Neguesha gained public attention through her relationship with Italian football player Mario Balotelli, a prominent figure in Italian football. At that time, Balotelli played as a forward for OGC Nice.
However, by September 2014, they had parted ways. Fanny shared that Balotelli was uncomfortable with the attention she received. Later, in August 2017, she revealed her new relationship with another football player, Mario Lemina, who was with Olympique de Marseille and later moved to Southampton FC.
Mario Lemino’s Children:
The centre-forward is a father to two children: his first son, Neals Lemina, and his second, Isaïah-King Lemina. While his marriage must have stirred some discomfort among fans because his wife was the former wag of Balotelli, the athlete isn’t bothered.
Mario Lemina’s children – Neals Lemina and his second, Isaïah-King Lemina. Sources: Instagram/lam_family.
Instead, Mario is focused on his career. In addition, he prays steadfastly that his father recovers from his ailment. And trying to accomplish all he can while he is still active and strong.
Personality:
Other than his football aspirations, the biracial footballer lives a full life. Firstly, the Gabonese Midfield Enforcer is a fashion lover; it won’t be surprising that he owns a clothing line already. In one interview, the footballer says he loves David Beckham because of his combination of football and fashion.
ASAP Rocky is also his icon because of his clothing choice and hairstyle. For you to love fashion, one has to be incredibly great in physique so that the body fits the attire. And so Mario always ensures that he’s in great shape by working out almost every day of the week. And being careful of his diet and conscious of his overall personality.
For recreational activities, does the footballer love spending time with his wife and two sons on vacations in different countries? Taking a stroll down to the park and swimming effectively are ways he spends time to ease the stress of his football career.
Strolling and keeping fit is the way that the defender spends time away. Pictures: Instagram/lems_family.
In an interview, despite the money he spends, the footballer set up a foundation he named after his grandmother, the Esther Foundation. For students who are less privileged in society. It is great to see a man concerned about himself and society.
Lifestyle:
The Gabonese footballer no doubt came from a not-so-well-to-do family. So when his cash came rolling, the father of two made sure he went all out to get everything he could buy. In his words, when there is money, spend it without remorse. When you go through his Instagram post, you can see Mario’s car, his latest phone, and some expensive chains on him. Of course, it is commendable that his choice of living this lifestyle does not erode the fact that he has to learn a helping hand to surround himself.
Family Life:
Mario Lemina’s parents and siblings have all been instrumental in his right to fame. So, we will explore all these individuals and their role in the footballers’ lives.
About Mario Lemina’s Father:
Mr Lemina, the family’s patron, is from the central part of Africa. The report shows that occupation in basketball but didn’t take it to a professional level. Despite being in one of the countries where economic failure is paramount, Mario’s luminous father was determined to care for his five children and his wife.
Mr Lemina is standing in the middle with his sons. Photos: Instagram lems_family
Sadly, however, in recent times, according to the tribute being made by his son, Mr Lemina has been in the hospital for a while. There is no information on what ails him. His first son is eager to see him return to his healthy self, just like his tribute quoted hysteria needed him, and he needed to be back. Nonetheless, we hope Mario’s father fully recovers and gets back to doing his best. Sadly, he passed away in December without making it to 2024. And now they have lost the most important thing in their lives.
About Mario Lemina’s Mother:
The matron of Lemina’s family is a French woman who fell in love with a Gabonese man. And decided to grow a family with him. This resulted, of course, in a biracial family. And then gave birth to a healthy daughter and four sons.
Here is Mrs Lemina with her husband. Source: Facebook.
Not much information has been gathered on Mario Lemina’s mother. We know that the woman who has brought forth her three children has spent most of her life caring for them on holidays.
They have to wake up early for their training sessions or tend to the wounds from their football career, and she does so faithfully or religiously. We know that despite her not being in public and in the limelight due to personal reasons, her mother very well never jokes with high resistance.
About Mario Lemina’s Sister:
Here is Mario Lemina’s sister with her brother as they share a photo. Image: Twitter.
Halanne, the only sister in the family, is raised beside Susan. She wouldn’t take the same path as Lauren James to pursue a football career. However, by reminiscing about choosing her father’s career and playing basketball, there is little or no information about her, just like her parents. Still, she is forever cheering on her brothers, Noha and Mario.
Mario Lemina’s Brothers:
The other two brothers, Kevin and Robson Lemina, are off the spotlights. There is no information that they are also into sports like the other two siblings, who are footballers. Nonetheless, we know that they are revelling in the radiance of having kin who are in the sports world.
Mario Lemina’s four brothers stood proudly with their father. Photo: Instagram lems_family
Noha Lémina is not a prominent celebrity from France. The footballer was born on the 1st of September, 1993, in Libreville, Gabon’s capital city. He began his football career at the renowned French club Lorient, where he made his professional debut in 2012.
Noha Lemina is the younger brother of the defender. Image: Groupe Media
Mario Lemina’s younger brother’s impressive achievements caught the eyes of scouts, leading him to sign with Olympique de Marseille in 2013. During his time there, he showcased his versatility as a midfielder. He has earned a reputation as a dynamic player with excellent technical skills and physicality.
Untold Facts:
In the concluding section of Mario Lemina’s Biography, we’re set to reveal more lesser-known facts about him. So, without further ado, let’s dive in.
How Rich is the Wolverhampton Defensive Midfielder Prodigy?
Where Mario Lemina’s family comes from (Gabon) and (France), the average citizen makes around XOF 150,000 per month or €1,940 net per month. Do you know?… such a person would need over 20 years to earn the midfielder monthly salary of €40000.
Mario Lemina FIFA Profile:
Mario Lemina, a rising talent of Gabon origins, shares similarities in playing style with Scott McTominay and Rodrigo Bentancur. His standout qualities as a right winger include exceptional agility, impressive dribbling skills, and remarkable ball control, all of which shine through on the field.
FIFA’s Analysis of Mario’s Profile. Image: sofifa
Despite his impressive abilities, there are areas where Lemina can further develop his game. Notably, he could work on improving his skills in interceptions, aggression, and strength. Enhancing these aspects has the potential to impact his performance significantly.
Devoting attention to these areas in Lemina’s development could take his overall gameplay to the next level. By honing his interceptions and aggression, he can bolster his defensive capabilities, and increasing his strength will make him a more formidable presence in challenges. These improvements would round out his skill set, transforming him into an even more versatile and effective player.
Mario Lemina’s Tattoo:
The former of Juventus proudly displays tattoos on various parts of his body, including both hands. Although Lemina has not publicly revealed the significance behind these tattoos, it is common for such body art to carry deep personal meanings. It is reasonable to assume that these tattoos may symbolize important facets of his life or beliefs, mirroring the trend frequently observed among athletes.
Mario Lemina’s Religion:
The dedicated footballer has not made any public declarations regarding his association with ideological groups. Nevertheless, based on statistical data, our guess to Mario Lemina’s religion leans towards Christianity. This inference is drawn from the fact that Christianity is the predominant faith in Gabon. However, it’s essential to recognize that personal religious beliefs vary widely and are ultimately a matter of individual choice and conviction.
Mario Lemina’s Family were Robbed:
On Sunday, October 10, 2021, at approximately 9:30 p.m., a home invasion occurred at the residence of OGC Nice midfielder Mario Lemina, located in Alpes-Maritimes. Three individuals, whose identities were concealed by hooded attire and who were armed, forcibly entered the property.
Reports from L’Equipe suggest that upon entering, the intruders encountered three occupants in the home, believed to be Lemina’s wife and children, according to Nice-Matin. These individuals were reportedly restrained and subjected to aggressive acts.
At the time of the incident, Mario Lemina was away, preparing for an upcoming match with the Gabon national team against Angola, a part of the World Cup 2022 qualifiers scheduled for the following evening. Earlier in the year, similar incidents occurred involving football players’ homes during matches.
Specifically, in March, the residences of Paris Saint-Germain players Angel Di Maria and the father of Marquinhos were targeted and burglarized while a PSG game was underway. The event left Di Maria deeply shaken. A precedent for such distressing events dates back to 2001 when Lucho Gonzalez of Marseille experienced a terrifying home invasion where he was threatened at gunpoint. The ordeal was profoundly impactful, and Gonzalez departed the team shortly after.
End Note:
Mario René Junior Lemina, born on September 1, 1993, in Gabon, is a defensive midfielder. Born to a French mother and a Gabonese father, Mario is among the eldest of three children in his family. He often credits his father, a significant influence in his life and career, for his success in football.
Growing up in Libreville, Gabon, Mario was surrounded by a rich cultural environment and familial love. As the middle child between an older sister, Hanelle, and a younger brother, Noah, he likely played a central role in his family dynamics. Early on, Mario exhibited a strong passion for football, spending much of his time playing and practising in his neighbourhood, indicating his early dedication and talent.
Mario’s interest in football was shared with his brother, stemming from a familial enthusiasm for sports, as their father was a basketball enthusiast. Despite the initial inclination towards basketball, Mario and his brother envisioned themselves in international football arenas, inspired by the sports figures they admired on TV. Rather than being disappointed, Mario’s father supported his sons’ football aspirations, guiding them on their journey.
Despite Gabon’s relative prosperity, the Lemina family faced economic challenges that are typical of fluctuating economies. Mr. Lemina worked diligently to support the family, likely holding multiple jobs, while Mrs. Lemina contributed by maintaining the home and possibly engaging in her work.
This backdrop of hard work and dedication significantly influenced Mario’s resolve to succeed in football, realize his dreams, and uplift his family. Mario Lemina holds dual nationality: Gabonese through his father and French through his mother.
Libreville, the capital city of Gabon and Mario’s hometown is rich in culture and history, likely providing a vibrant backdrop to his early life. His dual heritage has influenced his cultural identity and has provided him with diverse perspectives throughout his life. Mario’s educational journey included focusing on sports and attending institutions in Rueil-Malmaison and Colombes before joining the Lorient Youth Academy at age 15.
His commitment to football was evident from a young age, transitioning from local clubs to professional teams, showcasing his growing skill and ambition. This dedication led him through various teams, including a significant transfer to Marseille and, later, international moves.
Mario’s personal life includes a relationship with Fanny Neguesha, a multi-talented individual known for her modelling, dancing, and music work, and her past relationship with footballer Mario Balotelli. The couple has two children, Neals and Isaïah-King Lemina. Despite public attention or controversy, Mario remains focused on his career and family, demonstrating his commitment to his personal and professional life.
Appreciation:
Thank you for taking the time to explore the details of Mario Lemino’s biography. We are dedicated to ensuring accuracy and fairness in our ongoing effort to bring you stories about French Football. If you find any discrepancies in this narrative about the black Panther footballer, don’t hesitate to contact us through the comments.
We also welcome your thoughts on the career of the dynamic midfielder and your feedback on the article we’ve crafted about him. Beyond Mario Lemina’s story, we offer a variety of other captivating soccer stories for your reading.
