Built for Battle: Nathan Collins’ Background and Path to Success

Nathan Collins is a name that resonates with resilience and determination—a young man who embodies what it means to thrive under pressure. Even at home, the expectations were immense. His father, a constant critic, would still find fault in his game even if he managed to stop someone as formidable as Erling Haaland. That relentless drive to meet and exceed expectations has shaped Nathan into a symbol of hope for Irish football. But before he became the Defensive Beast we know today, there was a boy with big dreams from Leixlip, Ireland. 

Nathan’s story is one of family legacy and personal ambition. Coming from a lineage deeply rooted in football, he grew up with not just a passion for the game but also an inherent pressure to succeed. From a young age, he placed incredible demands on himself, pushing his limits to the extent of developing a tactical mindset.

By the time he was just 13 years old, Nathan had already begun analyzing his own performances, sharpening his skills, and refining his understanding of the game. This made him not just a player but a thinker—a defender who combined grit with intelligence.

We hope to spark your curiosity about football biographies with the compelling story of Nathan Collins. To start, let’s dive into a photo gallery that captures his remarkable journey—from the days he was shaped into a young defensive prodigy to his meteoric rise in the world of football. Indeed, Collins is someone who has come a long way in his incredible life and career journey.

Now, let’s delve into the story of how this boy from Leixlip, driven by talent, family legacy, and unyielding self-discipline, rose to become one of the most promising defenders in modern football.

Childhood Story:

For starters, he bears the nickname “The Irish Rock” and his full name is Nathan Michael Collins. He was born on the 30th day of April 2001 to his parents, Mr and Mrs David Collins at Leixlip, a town in north-east County Kildare, Ireland.

Growing Up Years:

Nathan grew up surrounded by three siblings, each sharing a love for sports. His younger brother, Seb, his younger sister, Keavy, and his older brother, Josh, all inherited their athletic passion from their dad, David Collins. For Nathan, Seb, and Josh, football was life. The three boys were completely absorbed in the game while growing up.

Keavy, however, took a different path. She found her passion in Gaelic football, a sport deeply rooted in Irish culture. Gaelic football, often called GAA or simply Gaelic, is a fast-paced team sport played by 15 players on each side. While Nathan focused on mastering soccer, Keavy thrived in her own right, showcasing her skills in a sport unique to their heritage. Together, the Collins siblings embraced their athletic journeys, each carving their own path.

Since he was a child, Nathan has always been incredibly competitive, chasing his older brother around the garden, determined to beat him,” says Davey, their dad. Whenever he played with his friends, it was easy to spot him. People often saw him as a big lad, not someone who was good for nothing, but one with exceptional technical abilities.

Nathan Collins’ Early Life (Football):

From a young age, it was clear Nathan Collins was destined for something special. Football quickly became his world, and it has stayed that way ever since. From the moment he embraced his dream of becoming a professional, he faced relentless motivation from his dad, who was determined to see him succeed.

To toughen him up, his dad often had Nathan train with his older brother’s team. Once the older boys finished their matches, Nathan would step onto the field to play his own game. Competing against bigger, stronger players shaped his physicality and sharpened his skills. Even as a boy, Nathan stood out, showing he could hold his own in a world beyond his years.

From an early age, Nathan Collins showed he was no ordinary player. Facing his own team, he often outsmarted, outran, or outmuscled them, proving he was a step ahead. Even as a child, he carried the presence of an Alpha male, shaped by the challenges he faced early on. At just 13, Nathan behaved and played like someone years older, blending maturity with tactical intelligence that rivaled seasoned professionals.

Did you know? At 13, Nathan was already analyzing his own games. His tactical awareness was far beyond his age—he read the game like someone five years older, almost at the level of men’s football. Always a leader, he captained every youth team he played for. On the pitch, he wasn’t just a player; he acted like a manager, guiding his team with confidence and vision well beyond his years.

Nathan Collins’ Family Background:

The Irish defender, Nathan Collins, comes from a sports-driven family. His father, David Collins, is a former Ireland youth captain and retired footballer who later became a UEFA ‘B’ licensed coach. Dave, had a promising football career. He came through Liverpool’s academy and even played alongside Roy Keane for Ireland’s Under-21s.

Unfortunately, injuries cut short what could have been a stellar career. Despite showing promise at Kenny Dalglish’s Liverpool, David Collins’ father never made a first-team appearance. Dave later moved to Oxford United before returning to Ireland to play in the League of Ireland with Athlone and Shelbourne. Dave’s talent and experience undoubtedly played a big role in shaping Nathan’s journey in football.

David played a crucial role in shaping Nathan’s career, balancing the roles of both a mentor and a supportive father. Their bond has remained strong throughout Nathan’s rise in football.

Collins’ Dad often reflects on his son’s rapid growth and undeniable talent, noting there was always something special about him. In his own words:

“I’m just under six foot, and Nathan wasn’t far off me at 13,” he shared. “By the time I finished coaching him at 15 or 16, he was already three or four inches taller.”

Nathan’s early development wasn’t just about his height; it was about the character and skills he built, making him more than just a big presence on the pitch. His father saw early on that Nathan had the potential to stand out in ways far beyond what first met the eye.

Besides his Dad, Nathan Collins has other family members whose lives are deeply rooted in football. His uncle, Eamonn, enjoyed a long career as a midfielder with clubs like Colchester and Southampton. Eamonn also managed Saint Patrick’s Athletic and captained Ireland’s youth team.

Another footballing influence in the family is Nathan’s uncle Mick, who played for St Patrick’s Athletic and Dundalk FC. Mick later spent two decades as a scout for Manchester City, helping identify top talent.

Adding to the football legacy, Mick’s son Mikey, Nathan’s cousin, had a successful youth career with Liverpool. Mikey later played professionally in Sweden, Italy, Cyprus, and Holland and represented Ireland up to the U21 level. This rich family history in the sport undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping Nathan’s path to success.

Did you know? The Collins family had a proud tradition of earning caps up to the U21 level, but for years, they missed having a senior cap to their name. Nathan Collins was the one to break that streak, finally bringing the family their first senior cap.

From a sibling viewpoint, as noted earlier, football runs even deeper in the family. Nathan’s older brother, Josh, played in the League of Ireland and carried forward the family’s passion for the game. Even their grandfather, Michael, left his mark on Irish football, captaining Dublin side Transport to the FAI Cup victory in 1950. Nathan’s achievement stands as a testament to the family’s enduring football legacy.

Even to this day, football remains a way of life for the Collins family. Every day and night, they talk about the game, discussing tactics and what Nathan needs to improve. His parents, along with his uncle Eamonn, rarely miss a match. Whether by plane, train, taxi, or even cycling, they always find a way to support him.

His younger brother, Seb, shares the same passion for football and mimics everything Nathan does. In this football-obsessed family, his dad, Dave, and uncle, Eamonn, come from the old-school days of the sport. After each match, especially tough ones, they are Nathan’s harshest critics, always pointing out where he went wrong. Their support and tough love have shaped him into the player he is today.

Family Origin:

Nathan Collins hails from Leixlip, a town in northeast County Kildare, Ireland. The town’s name comes from the Old Norse word Lax Hlaup, meaning “Salmon Leap,” inspired by the salmon-rich waters of the River Liffey.

Leixlip is known for its historical charm, including Leixlip Castle, one of Ireland’s oldest continuously inhabited castles. Dating back to 1172, the castle was once home to notable families, including the Guinness family, famous for their brewing legacy. In fact, Arthur Guinness, the founder of Guinness Brewery, began his story in Leixlip.

Nathan’s hometown is ideally located just 19 minutes (17.2 km) from Dublin, Ireland’s bustling capital, making it a place rich in both history and modern connections. This picturesque and vibrant town played a part in shaping Nathan’s roots and pride.

Because his roots are deeply tied to Ireland, a country known for its Celtic heritage, Nathan Collins’ ethnicity is Irish. The legacy of his ancestors and the traditions of his hometown further highlight his proud Irish identity.

Education:

Nathan Collins attended secondary school at Confey Community College in Leixlip, County Kildare, Ireland. The school, a co-educational vocational institution, opened in September 1986 with just 36 students. By 2025, it had grown to around 900 students and 80 staff members.

After graduating from Confey Community College, Nathan Collins’ parents believed University College Dublin (UCD) was the next logical step for him. They wanted Nathan to combine football with earning a university degree, just like his brother Josh had done. His parents, David and his wife, understood how difficult it was to succeed as a professional footballer, knowing the odds were slim. They were hesitant about Nathan leaving home at just 15 to pursue his career in England. For them, it was tough to imagine their young son living in another country so far from home at such a tender age.

Nathan’s parents eventually realized they had to let him go to pursue his football dream. However, it didn’t come without conditions. They struck a deal with him—he could play football, but he had to keep up with his studies too. “I had to do all my schoolwork to keep them happy!” Nathan recalled. His parents wanted to ensure he had something to fall back on if things didn’t go as planned—whether due to injury or not making it in the sport. This agreement gave them peace of mind while supporting their son’s ambitions.

Before their son joined Stoke, his parents had held talks with Diarmuid McNally – director of football at UCD – to confirm he would return home at 18 and go into the Belfield Park system if things didn’t work out at Stoke. “My dad covered all the bases, but he didn’t need to,” Collins laughs.

While pursuing his football dreams, Nathan took a vocational year out of school to focus on his career in England. At just 15, he joined Stoke City’s academy. During this period, he frequently travelled back and forth between Stoke and Ireland, as he deeply missed his family.

Nathan’s parents decided not to visit him during the first few months of his move. They believed this would help him adjust to living independently—a vital part of his personal and professional growth. Despite the challenges, Nathan’s time balancing football and family taught him resilience and independence at a young age.

It didn’t take long for Nathan’s parents, David and his mother, to realize that his future was firmly rooted in football. They saw his potential to succeed as a professional and understood that his career would take him beyond Ireland. This meant attending a university in their country was no longer a realistic option for him.

Career Buildup:

The very foundation of Nathan Collins football journey began at Cherry Orchard F.C. This is a football club based in the Cherry Orchard area of Ballyfermot, Dublin in Ireland. From a young age, Nathan Collins was always a captain. He attributes his leadership qualities to his football-obsessed family. Nathan developed quickly, and his father, David, who also managed his childhood club, Cherry Orchard, worried that his physical advantage over his peers might hinder his future growth.

David noticed early on that Nathan was naturally bigger and stronger than most kids. Both Nathan and his older brother, Josh, four years his senior, laid the foundation of their careers at Cherry Orchard under their father’s guidance.

Their dad, Dave, was so hardworking that he managed both of his sons’ teams. While Nathan had training on Tuesdays and Thursdays, his older brother Josh trained on Mondays and Wednesdays. On the days Nathan didn’t train, his dad wouldn’t let him sit idle at home. Instead, Dave would take Nathan to train with Josh’s team, which had players mostly four years older.

Training with older boys helped Nathan adapt to a tougher physicality. Despite training with his brother’s team, Nathan still attended his own team’s training, which meant he was practising four times a week. This experience taught him a different side of the game. Rather than relying on brute strength, Nathan learned to use his football intelligence to outplay others. As a kid, he had to find smarter ways to succeed. Though he was a giant on the field, he realized that speed wasn’t always his strength. So, Nathan learned to outmuscle and outsmart his opponents.

When Nathan and his brother Josh returned home, they bonded over football. Nathan still remembers playing against his brother and always competing with him. Their parents had to step in and keep things in check a few times, especially when things got heated. There were moments when Nathan lost, but those experiences taught him resilience. Losing to his brother pushed him to keep going and improve.

Road to Fame:

Nathan Collins thrived at Cherry Orchard, impressing in both his team and his brother’s, even against players four years older. His performances caught the attention of scouts from professional clubs. In January 2016, he joined Stoke City, identified by Tony Bowen, the brother of assistant manager Mark Bowen. Leaving home at just 15 was a big step, but Collins adapted quickly to life in Staffordshire.

Upon arriving in England, Nathan Collins attended trials with several teams. Out of all of them, he chose Stoke City. He described it as a family-oriented and hard-working club where he felt instantly at home. Stoke made him feel comfortable, which allowed him to focus on playing his best football.

Nathan joined Stoke City after a successful one-week trial. At the end of the trial, his dad, Dave, told him he was heading back to Ireland, leaving Nathan behind to stay at Stoke. For a 15-year-old whose only dream was to play football, Nathan didn’t feel scared about being left alone in England. Instead, he confidently responded,

“Okay, see you later, Dad!” He embraced the opportunity, saying, “I loved it here.”

In the year he passed trials and joined Stoke City, Nathan Collins’ reputation soared. His impressive skills and leadership qualities caught the attention of the Republic of Ireland U17 management. On October 17, 2016, he made his debut for the U17 team against Kazakhstan. Not long after, he was appointed captain, a testament to his natural leadership abilities.

The former Cherry Orchard schoolboy became a key figure in Ireland’s youth squads. He played in crucial tournaments, including the UEFA Under-19 European Championship. His performances stood out, showcasing qualities that convinced his coaches he was destined to become one of Ireland’s finest footballers in years to come.

Dream Come True:

In April 2019, the Collins family’s worries were finally put to rest when Nathan made his first-team debut for Stoke City against Swansea. Shortly after, the club offered him a five-year contract, eager to secure him amid growing interest from several Premier League teams. Recognized as a defender with immense potential, Nathan remained grounded despite the attention. Premier League interest didn’t distract him—he simply wanted to play football and trusted his career decisions to those managing him.

After his senior debut, Nathan quickly showcased his leadership skills, earning the captain’s armband at just 18 years old. Fun fact: he became Stoke City’s youngest-ever captain at 18 years and 105 days. Leading the Potters to his first win as captain, Nathan embraced the role naturally. Reflecting on the moment, he shared:

“Thinking about it now, it’s mad, isn’t it?” he laughed. “Just before we went into the dressing room, Nathan Jones pulled me aside and said, ‘Listen, you’re going to be captain.’ But it didn’t bother me. As a kid, I was always captain of my team. It’s tougher with older lads in the dressing room, but what got me that far was being myself. I stayed the same player and person—I just had an armband on.”

Nathan spent three seasons with Stoke City, playing alongside seasoned talents like Bojan Krkic, Peter Crouch, Ryan Shawcross, Jack Butland, Cameron Carter-Vickers, and John Obi Mikel.

Path to Fame:

Collins’ impressive performances at Stoke drew attention from several clubs eager to sign him. Bigger teams showed interest, but Nathan trusted his close circle for advice. They recommended joining Sean Dyche’s Burnley, a club where he could get regular game time. At the time, Nathan and his family weighed the options carefully and agreed Burnley was the logical next step.

Sean Dyche had been a long-time admirer of Nathan’s talent. With James Tarkowski in the final year of his contract, Burnley saw Collins as his ideal replacement. Nathan believed Burnley offered the perfect opportunity to step up and secure playing time. In June 2021, he completed his move to the club, ready to take on the challenge and prove himself at a higher level.

Making the leap from the English Championship to the Premier League is no small feat, especially for a young centre-back like Nathan Collins. He knew earning respect and trust in the top flight would be a challenge, but he was determined to prove himself. At Burnley, Nathan shared the pitch with talented teammates like Dwight McNeil (LW), Maxwel Cornet (LW), Wout Weghorst (CF), Chris Wood (CF), Ashley Barnes, and Nick Pope.

Collins made his Premier League debut against Norwich City in October 2021. Initially, breaking into the starting lineup was tough, as Ben Mee and James Tarkowski were established starters. Nathan got his opportunities when they were unavailable due to disciplinary issues or injuries. With every game under Sean Dyche’s management, Collins improved. It didn’t take long before his performances made it increasingly difficult for the coach to leave him on the bench.

Achieving his Premier League dream was just the start for Nathan Collins. His next goal was to represent Ireland at the senior international level, a milestone he proudly achieved. Ireland coach Stephen Kenny had praised Collins long before officially calling him up. Nathan faced tough competition for a spot in one of Ireland’s strongest areas, battling alongside John Egan, Shane Duffy, and Andrew Omobamidele for a place among the three starting centre-halves.

Interestingly, Nathan and Andrew Omobamidele grew up just two minutes apart in Leixlip and have known each other since childhood. Collins has risen alongside a group of talented young Irish players who are now making waves at the senior level under Kenny’s guidance. Reflecting on Nathan’s early performances, his coaches often said, “He’s been unreal on the pitch, hasn’t he?”

By 2023, Nathan had earned 14 caps for Ireland, showcasing consistent excellence that earned him the Republic of Ireland’s 2022/23 Player of the Year award. Later, he was honored with the captain’s armband, although the Player of the Year accolade was eventually claimed by Chiedozie Ogbene.

Speaking about his passion for representing Ireland, Nathan shared,

“There’s nothing better than playing for Ireland. I love it so much. I’d do anything and fight through any injury to play for my country.” His pride and determination continue to inspire Irish fans and players alike.

Wolves and Beyond:

In the 2022/2023 Wolves transfer window, Nathan Collins made a big move to the Premier League club. He signed a five-year contract for £20.5 million, setting a new record for the highest transfer fee ever paid for an Irish player. His transfer from relegated Burnley was the first high-profile signing of the window, bringing excitement to the club and its fans. They were thrilled to welcome a modern centre-back like Nathan, who they believed perfectly suited Bruno Lage’s style of play.

Nathan Collins, the Irish defender inspired by Barcelona’s Gerard Pique, had a strong start at Wolves. He played a key role in helping the team secure three clean sheets and the best defensive record in the Premier League. His biggest supporters—his father Dave, uncle Eamonn, and the rest of the Collins family—were often at the stadium, cheering him on or offering critiques when he didn’t perform well.

At Wolves, it was clear that Collins had strong leadership qualities, a trait he displayed since becoming Stoke’s youngest captain at 18. His partnership with Maximilian Kilman has thrived, especially after Bruno Lage’s decision to move on from Conor Coady. It wasn’t just Nathan and Max—everyone contributed, including Jose Sa, Jonny, Nelson Semedo, and Rayan Ait-Nouri.

Sadly, Nathan’s favourite coach, Bruno Lage, was sacked after Wolves struggled to score, netting only three times in eight matches and falling into the relegation zone. When experienced defender Craig Dawson arrived in January, Nathan lost his spot in the starting XI under Julen Lopetegui. During Lopetegui’s tenure, Nathan decided to start a new chapter with Thomas Frank‘s Brentford team. On 4 July 2023, he signed for the Bees for a club-record £23 million, breaking the Irish transfer record and becoming the most expensive Irish player in history. And the rest, as they say, is history.

Nathan’s Love Life:

As Nathan Collins’ football skills earned him the spotlight, fans started wondering if there was a special someone behind his success, aside from his supportive family. Digging deeper, it turns out Nathan isn’t single—he has a girlfriend. Their bond seems stronger than what you’d find in any romantic TV drama. It might not be long before Nathan takes the next big step and pops the “Will you marry me?” question! Here, Nathan Collins shares a heartfelt moment, lifting his girlfriend in a display of pure love and joy. Together, they show that behind every strong player is someone who believes in them every step of the way.

Personality:

Nathan Collins’ personality shines through in everything he does. He takes criticism from his family with grace, stays level-headed, and carries himself with humility. Despite his drive to improve, he remains grounded and approachable. His hardworking, humble nature is a perfect fit for a Thomas Frank team.

Collins’ humility and leadership were on full display after a tough moment in his career. Following a red card in an Irish U-21 match, he didn’t let the mistake define him. Instead, he did something remarkable—he asked for the phone numbers of every staff member and sent them individual apology messages. It was a heartfelt gesture, showing how much he values respect and accountability.

This act of humility highlights why Nathan is so admired. He’s not just a hardworking and level-headed player but also someone who takes responsibility and learns from setbacks, proving he’s a true leader on and off the pitch.

Nathan is extraordinary—he’s quiet but kind, rarely says a bad word, and always returns a smile. He keeps his head down, works tirelessly, and would go above and beyond for those around him. He is the kind of person who makes a loyal and dependable friend. He’s approachable, likable, and someone you’d always want in your corner. Ever wondered why he’s been captain in nearly every team he’s played for since childhood? It’s because his leadership, character, and ability to inspire others naturally set him apart.

Lifestyle:

Nathan Collins leads a grounded and unpretentious lifestyle. Standing tall at the back of his Jeep, preparing to head out, he looks like any regular guy you’d meet. There’s no flashy display to hint at his status as a top footballer earning £1,560,000 annually and £30,000 weekly. His humble attitude and simple approach to life make him all the more admirable. The Irish Defender loves keeping it low-key, with no gold chains, just a man and his wheels. Who knew a footballer with a huge weekly paycheck could make ‘casual’ look this good?

Untold Facts:

In the final chapter of Nathan Collins’ biography, we’re about to reveal some surprising truths about him. These are things you might not know. Get ready to learn more about the Irish Defender. Let’s dive in!

Nathan Collins FC 25:

If defending were a university, Nathan Collins would graduate with top honours in awareness, sliding tackles, and standing tackles. The Irish defender shines with A+ skills in aggression, interceptions, composure, jumping, stamina, strength, and reactions.

Currently rated 75 in FIFA EA Sports, Collins’ potential of 81 seems undervalued for a player of his talent. At just 23 years old, he draws comparisons to rising stars like Jarell Quansah and Levi Colwill. Fans believe he has the potential to surpass expectations, reaching an overall rating of 83 or even 87. There’s no doubt—Collins still has so much more to give to the beautiful game.

Salary

You might be wondering, where does Nathan Collins rank in Brentford’s salary rankings? According to the Calology 2024 report, he, along with Mikkel Damsgaard, falls into the mid-table earners, making £30,000 a week and £1,560,000 annually.

Bigger earners include Bryan Mbeumo (£45,000 weekly, £2,340,000 annually), Fabio Carvalho (£40,000 weekly, £2,080,000 annually), and Rico Henry (£35,000 weekly, £1,820,000 annually). Nathan earns more than Yoane Wissa, who makes £25,000 weekly and £1,300,000 annually, and Kevin Schade, who earns £10,000 weekly and £520,000 annually.

Religion:

Nathan Collins has never publicly discussed his religion. However, given his background and the culture of Ireland, it’s likely he is Christian. Around 78% of the Irish population identify as Christian, with the majority being Roman Catholic. While Nathan hasn’t confirmed this, it’s reasonable to assume his faith aligns with the traditions common in his country.

End Note:

Nathan Collins’ journey from a young boy in Leixlip, Ireland, to a Premier League footballer is one filled with passion, drive, and family support. At just 22, the towering 6’4″ centre-back has already made a name for himself in football, having started at Dublin’s Cherry Orchard club. Football runs deep in his family, with his father David and uncle Eamonn both professional players. David played for clubs like Wigan Athletic and Shelbourne, while Eamonn had a notable career with Southampton and Portsmouth.

Nathan’s early years were shaped by his competitive nature and a perfectionist approach to the game. His father recalls how, even as a child, Nathan’s desire to win in drills was unmatched, always challenging his older brother Josh. That drive led to a quick rise through the ranks, and at just 18, he became Stoke City’s youngest-ever captain, a clear sign of his leadership and maturity.

His family’s belief in him was unwavering, and even when Nathan moved to Stoke City as a teenager, they set up a safety net for him in case the dream didn’t work out. Fortunately, it did, as Nathan went on to become one of Ireland’s brightest footballing talents, securing a long-term contract with Brentford in 2024.

From Cherry Orchard to the Premier League, Nathan’s rise has been guided by the support and wisdom of his family, who ensured that he remained grounded despite the fame. Nathan Collins’ dedication to the game shows his journey is far from over. The future of Brentford F.C. and Irish football will likely see him at its core. He’s a baller who constantly proves his worth and leadership.

Appreciation Note:

A huge thank you to all the fans for your continued support! Your enthusiasm keeps the spirit of Irish football storytelling alive. Be sure to explore more inspiring stories of Irish footballers— like that of Caoimhín Kelleher (GK), Evan Ferguson and the veteran Matt Doherty. Let us know in the comments if you spot anything off in Nathan Collins’ story. Share your thoughts on his career and journey as a leader in Irish football—we’d love to hear from you!