Once upon a time in Lisbon, there was a young boy named Nuno Tavares, whose greatest passion was music. His love for playing the cello overshadowed all other interests, with football not even on his radar. His bond with his mother, Maria Amélia, and his dedication to music were the cornerstones of his early years.
This article delves into the full story of Nuno Tavares, from his boyhood days immersed in music to his successful transition into professional football, all while maintaining his musical hobbies.
Musician Turned Pro Footballer: Nuno Tavares’ Hidden Story
Nuno’s journey from a music enthusiast to a footballer is intertwined with his deep admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, whose legacy inspired him. Despite being born in Lisbon, Nuno’s roots trace back to Cape Verde, the ancestral land of Ronaldo. His decision to join Sporting CP was influenced not only by his family’s encouragement but also by his admiration for his idol.
At 15, Nuno faced a pivotal choice between continuing his music or pursuing football professionally. With support from his family, he chose football as his career path but remained dedicated to his musical passion.
Our Nuno Tavares Biography goes beyond his on-field achievements. It covers his childhood story, early life, and parents, including Maria Amélia, his family background, his brother Edson Tavares, and his lifestyle. Now, let’s dive into the full story of Nuno Tavares and discover the journey that shaped him into the footballer he is today.
Preamble:
To ignite your autobiography appetite for the engaging nature of Nuno Tavares’ Biography, we’ve deemed it fit to serve you with his boyhood years filled with his love for Music and Success Gallery. Behold Nuno Tavares’s life trajectory, which indeed reveals that he has come a long way in his amazing life journey.
Nuno Tavares Biography – From the Early Days to When He Began Famous.
Nuno Tavares is widely admired for how he adds depth to the flank, consistently creating dangerous situations for opposing defenses. His crossing ability, akin to that of Reece James and Trent Alexander-Arnold, is one of his standout skills. You might have seen a viral video of him playing with his dogs, which some might find less impressive.
Despite his impressive soccer achievements, few have explored a detailed biography of Nuno Tavares. That’s where we come in. So, let’s dive in and explore his full story.
Nuno Tavares Childhood Story:
For Biography starters, he bears the nickname – Lode Runner and the full name – Nuno Albertino Varela Tavares.
The Portuguese footballer was born on the 26th day of January 2000 to his mother, Maria Amélia, in the city of Lisbon, Portugal.
Growing-Up Years:
Nuno Tavares spent his early years with his older brother, Edson Tavares, in Bairro dos Navegadores, a charming neighborhood in Talaíde, a picturesque town on the outskirts of Lisbon.
Nuno Tavares’ parents raised him at this Municipal.
As a boy, Nuno always had the most important things and persons in his life. As far as people are concerned, the unending love for his mother (Maria Amélia) comes first.
The next thing after the love for his Mum is no other than his attachment to music. PLEASE NOTE: There was no football in the picture – at this time.
In fact, nothing (except his Mum) could share that boy’s attention with the cello. Pictured below is the cello, a musical instrument that Nuno played with huge mastery.
Don’t worry; we’ll tell you more about his amazing music story and how he became a footballer.
Did you know?… Nuno Tavares’ first love was the Cello and NOT football.
Nuno Tavares Family Background:
Following intensive research, we observed – that luxuries did not surround his early days, like most households in Lisbon.
In simple terms, Nuno Taveres’ parents do not operate a wealthy home – rather, one that represents the middle class.
One constant in Nuno Tavares’ family is their deep passion for football. From a young age, Nuno idolized Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal’s greatest footballer, which fueled his love for the game.
Inspired by his family’s admiration for CR7, Nuno began to dream of a career in football while still pursuing his musical interests. It was during this time that his mother recognized her son’s true calling.
Family Origin:
Truth be told, it’s clear from his appearance that Nuno Tavares’ roots extend beyond Portugal. His connection to Cristiano Ronaldo goes deeper than mere fandom.
Nuno’s family originally hails from Cape Verde, not Portugal. Cape Verde, an island nation in the central Atlantic Ocean, is the ancestral homeland of CR7, making Ronaldo’s heritage African. This deeper link might explain Nuno’s strong admiration for the football legend.
This map of Ronaldo’s Family Roots helps explain where Nuno Tavares’ family comes from.
While working on Nuno Tavares’ biography, it’s clear that Cape Verde is keen for him to switch nationalities and represent them on the international stage. The country has actively encouraged him to play for their national team, especially given that both of Nuno’s parents are from Cape Verde.
Education and Career Buildup:
Beginning from the age of four, the youngster began a quest to go through schooling. For Nuno, there were two things in mind (back in the day) while going to school. Let’s tell you about them.
These two things are his unmatched interest in music and football. Contrary to his thinking, going through the Portuguese education system has always been Maria Amélia’s (his Mum) top priority.
The rest of Nuno’s family wanted him to face a football career.
Attending a Football and Music School:
As Nuno Tavares grew older, his mother, Maria Amélia, enrolled him at Casa Pia, a music and sports centre in Lisbon. She hoped that the centre would provide him with essential support, including books, meals, travel opportunities, and a chance to study.
During his early days at Casa Pia, Nuno was often accompanied by his older brother, Edson, and they would travel by bus or train. Nuno started with music classes at Casa Pia and later shifted his focus to football.
This is Nuno Tavares at his Music School – Childhood Memories.
Nuno Tavares Biography – Football Story:
During his time at Casa Pia, the Lisbon native developed a deep passion for both football and music. Nuno Tavares decided he would pursue both interests and eventually choose between them later in life.
While his choice to focus on football didn’t surprise many, his dedication to music was less expected. Nuno felt a strong connection to music ever since he joined the Casa Pia band, which specialized in Bombardino music.
The Battle between choosing between Football and a Music Career:
Before hitting his teenage years, Nuno was recruited to learn the Brazilian style of football. He started with a futsal team and eventually moved up to Casa Pia’s 11-a-side football.
Just before turning 10, while in 5th grade, Nuno made a surprising choice. For reasons which obviously remained unclear, he decided to step back from football and focus more on his music education.
During this time, the young talent dedicated himself to mastering the cello, a bowed string instrument closely associated with European classical music.
This is what Cello looks like. It is one of the greatest Musical instruments in the world.
Mixing Humility with Versatility:
Nuno was always seen as a cheerful and well-mannered boy who genuinely enjoyed his interests and caused no trouble for his music and football teachers. His politeness was a standout trait.
At Casa Pia, where he was enrolled, Nuno faced a choice between continuing with sports, primarily football, or pursuing the arts, including music. Although he leaned towards music, he kept football as an option and remained open to it.
The Journey to Fame:
Throughout his childhood, he remained this calm and hardworking kid – one who showed the ability to multitask – combining music with football.
Observing that becoming a football is something that fades away with age, Nuno Tavares’ parents convinced their son to at least give it more dedication – than music. By implication, it means giving a career break to music education.
Nuno made this decision just as he caught the eye of Sporting CP Youth Academy. His impressive performances at Casa Pia, where he was one of the top youth footballers, sparked Sporting’s interest in him.
Nuno Tavares Sporting CP Story:
Nuno Tavares joined Sporting CP for two key reasons. First, his parents, especially his mother, were fully supportive of the move. Second, the club had developed his idol, Cristiano Ronaldo, making the offer even more compelling for his family.
Nuno signed up with Sporting CP Academy in 2010 when he was just ten years old. There, he played alongside Rafael Leão, one of the academy’s standout talents.
Nuno Tavares is the fourth kid from the right, while Rafael Leao is the fifth kid from the left.
Focusing solely on football and giving up music classes was a tough adjustment for Nuno. To manage this change, he found a way to keep his passion for music alive. One of his teammates at Sporting CP recalls how Nuno would often arrive at training carrying his cello, a heavy instrument.
During his first tournament at Sporting, the Mundialito, Nuno would bring his cello along and even play it for his teammates on match days. He was never shy about his love for the instrument, and his teammates were well aware of his musical talent.
Despite juggling both football and his music, Nuno maintained his performance on the field and continued to contribute to the team.
The Casa Pia Return:
As an average footballer, Tavares spent a hard three seasons with Sporting CP academy. It was hard because the boy observed he wasn’t growing up in his beloved music education.
Surprisingly, Nuno Tavares’ Mum (Maria Amélia) made him leave Sporting – because she wanted a common ground for both music and football.
According to the Portuguese website Record, Nuno Tavares’ parents (precisely his Mum) was the real instigator (in the Tavares family) who wanted him to return to Casa Pia.
This was the institution where her son reconciled the two activities.
For two extra years, Nuno stayed at Casa Pia (upon his return). While there, the youngster grew so mature as he mastered his two trades (music and football).
Research indicates that Nuno excelled in football, showcasing skill with both feet and scoring numerous goals. By the age of 15, his maturity allowed him to choose his own path. With guidance from his family, he decided to pursue football professionally while keeping music as his primary hobby.
Nuno Tavares Biography – The Success Story:
Still, at age 15, the rising star – who had gained muscle and boldness in the wings turned into a hot transfer property for his academy – Casa Pia.
In 2015, representatives from Benfica Academy approached Nuno Tavares’ parents to persuade them to join their team. Ultimately, Benfica successfully sparked Nuno’s passion for football. Upon signing with the club, the young Nuno vowed to fully commit himself to the sport, pledging 100% dedication.
This is Nuno, age 15, at the time he signed for Benfica academy.
Becoming a Professional:
The long wait finally became over. Tavares made his professional debut with Benfica’s senior team on the 4th of August 2019.
It was indeed a pretty start as he (a week later) scored his first goal and contributed to the goals of strikers – Haris Seferovic and Darwin Nunez.
Nuno made a brilliant start as a professional footballer.
The 2020-21 season got even better as Tavares made 41 senior appearances – with a load of assists and defensive partnership – with the likes of Jan Vertonghen.
With the prior departure of Nelson Semedo, he became the best backup option for Alex Grimaldo.
Disappointment Turned a Blessing:
On a faithful day, the Left-back – Nuno Tavares – shockingly found himself under Benfica’s disciplinary purview. This came because of a controversy that arose from his statement – in an interview published on social media.
In a controversial video, Nuno’s friend asks for the departure of his left-wing competitor and teammate – Álex Grimaldo – so that he can get more game time.
Nuno – who wasn’t enjoying so much first-team football – responded with the following statements – that speak to where his future lies. He said;
If it’s not at Benfica, it’s somewhere else.
Some Benfica supporters considered that to be an insult to his club. Others said he disrespected Grimaldo.
Following his statements, Nuno recognized his wrongs. He was quick to tender apologies to Benfica fans and management – for his “reckless attitude”. In his words,
This is Nuno Tavares’ apology to his club and teammates.
In a moment of thoughtlessness, I shared a video that’s now circulating on social media. It doesn’t accurately reflect my feelings for Benfica and my teammates.
I regret the attention and impact these private remarks have received. I want to clarify that I never intended to disrespect the club that played a significant role in my growth and development.
To all Benfica fans, I apologize. Please understand that the video doesn’t represent my true feelings or thoughts about the club I hold dear.
After the apology, rumours surfaced that Benfica had taken disciplinary action against him, including the possibility of selling him.
Arsenal stole him:
Moving on after the controversy, Nuno had one thing in mind. He prepared for the worst, as he knew he had become a Benfica outcast.
Upon observing the unrest, Arsenal and Napoli went to loggerheads to sign the youngster.
With Saed Kolasinac’s absence, the Gunners wanted competition for Kieran Tierney. On July 10, 2021, the North London club announced Nuno Tavares’ signing on a contract worth around £8 million.
At the time of writing Nuno Tavares’ Biography, Nuno, alongside Albert Sambi Lokonga, are super excited about playing in the Premier League. Fast forward to a season later, he has gotten a fellow country companion – the person of Fabio Vieira, joining Arsenal on a long-term contract.
Without a doubt, Nuno Tavares’ impressive performances with Benfica (see video below) earned him a well-deserved move to Arsenal. In his first season with the Gunners, he has already shown his value to the fans.
It’s only a matter of time before Benfica regrets selling him for a bargain. The rest of Nuno Tavares’ story is now a part of football history.
Love Life:
The pursuit of a career in both football and music is difficult. For Nuno, what matters most is his inner fulfilment.
Now that he has made it in the beautiful game, it is only normal for fans to make inquiries into the identity of his girlfriend or wife-to-be.
Who is Nuno Tavares dating? Does he have a girlfriend or wife?
Just before he began his career with Arsenal, we decided to cast our net to the World Wide Web to know the identity of the woman he considers his girlfriend or the mother of his child.
As of August 2021, the identity of Nuno Tavares’ Girlfriend is yet to be revealed and is not available in the public domain.
Just maybe, Nuno Tavares’ family has advised that he remains single – especially at this crucial stage of his career.
Personality:
When Nuno Tavares isn’t on the pitch, you might be wondering what he does in his personal time. Based on what we’ve covered so far, you’re probably right in your guess.
Nuno dedicates a significant portion of his free time to his cherished cello. There’s even a memorable performance he gave for Benfica fans during his time with the club.
On a personal level, Nuno is known for his quiet and humble nature. He’s a down-to-earth individual who prefers to keep things low-key and gets along well with everyone.
Lifestyle:
One thing is sure, the Baller is not the type who gloriously makes self-satisfied talks about his wealth. Nuno Tavares’ Lifestyle is free of exotic living, and this is evident in his simple looks.
NT lives a simple Lifestyle.
When he’s not on the field or playing music, you’re likely to find him at home indulging in his other passion: video gaming. Like Hector Bellerin, Tavares is a big fan of PlayStation, and it’s likely he’s already got his hands on the latest Next-Gen Console, the PlayStation 5.
NT loves the PlayStation. By the look of the controller, this is a PlayStation 4.
Also, in Nuno’s Lifestyle, staying more at home implies having his best friend around. They are his Dogs. The footballer is of the view that every dog is adorable, no matter the breed.
We also notice that Nuno loves having his dogs by his side whenever he plays his PlayStation (see image above) or the Piano. Here is a piece of video evidence.
Nuno Tavares Family Life:
In writing this biography, it’s clear that his parents, especially his mother, have been deeply committed to his success. Today, she and the entire Tavares family are enjoying the rewards of his hard work and dedication.
Nuno Tavares Father:
While little documentation exists on him, we sure know he, alongside Maria Amélia (his wife and Nuno’s Mum), both hail from the African Island of Cape Verde.
Unlike Nuno Tavares’ Mum, his Dad had a less documented role in his football and musical upbringing.
There is a little or non-existent contribution on his side. Just maybe, Nuno Tavares’ parents may be separated or divorced. All observed decisions came from his Mum.
Nuno Tavares Mother:
Maria Amélia, as she is often called, means everything to her son and his brother. She had played significant roles in nearly all facets of her Nuno’s life – starting from his childhood days to the present.
Without Maria Amélia, Nuno would never have found solace in his struggle between choosing the right career direction.
Maria Amélia made pivotal decisions that allowed her son to excel in both football and music.
Nuno Tavares Brother:
According to a Portuguese website (Record), his name is Edson Tavares. He appears to be the only brother of Nuno Tavares – who is the breadwinner of his family. No research exists as to whether he is a footballer.
Nuno Tavares Relative:
One thing is clear: the Arsenal footballer has a strong support system from extended family members who root for him, both from Cape Verde and his native Portugal.
Speaking of identifying Nuno’s relative, we found this man with whom he shares the same family name with.
His name is David Tavares – (nicknamed Rasta Tavares). Surprisingly, he plays for Benfica – at the time of writing this Bio.
David Tavares was born in Portugal, and he is of Cape Verdean descent – the original home of Nuno Tavares’ family.
More interestingly, he was raised in Lisbon (similar to Nuno), and he is a graduate of Benfica Academy. Is Dave part of the Nuno Tavares’ Family?
NT appears to be at a dinner with David Tavares (middle) and another friend.
Untold Facts:
Having journeyed with you throughout his life history, we’ll use this concluding section to unveil more truths about Nuno.
Let’s begin with what looks like the Portuguese footballer’s hidden hobby.
A Basketball Fan:
While hanging out with David Tavares, Nuno made fans to have a feeling – that he is an NBA fan.
Judging by his wear, he appears to be a Boston Celtics fan. Who knows?… maybe the boy knows how to play basketball.
Are these two basketball fans?
Comparing his Salary to the Average Citizen:
Upon agreeing to leave Benfica, Arsenal’s director Edu promised to triple Nuno Tavares wages. Research has shown that Nuno made around 35,000 pounds per week (2021 stats) with Benfica.
Now, here is a breakdown of Nuno Tavares Arsenal’s salary – when converted from Pound sterling to Cape Verdean escudo. It tells you just how RICH he is. NOTE: Cape Verde is the home of his parents and relatives.
Football Profile:
Nuno Tavares excels best when it comes to his movement – all thanks to his speed of 85 and acceleration of 87. He also shines in the area of power, skills, defence, and mentality.
Despite these amazing stats, many Arsenal fans feel he can’t compete with Cedric Soares (who is sometimes utilized in the Left wing).
Well, the 2021-2022 season would tell. Just like Ivan Toney, Nuno has a premier league mission of proving his critics wrong.
Nuno Tavares Religion:
So far as we can tell, the son of Maria Amélia believes in the existence of a supernatural being called God.
Also, our odds are in favour of Nuno identifying with the Christian religion. He joins 86% of Portuguese who are Christians.
Conclusion:
Growing up in Talaíde, Nuno wasn’t surrounded by life’s luxuries – like many families in the area. For the young boy, three things were the most important.
The first is the love of his mother (Maria Amélia). The second is the love for Cello. Third is his love for football.
From the age of four, Nuno began to shape his future, exploring the paths that would lead him to his destiny. There were times when he pondered whether to pursue a career in music and leave football behind.
Thanks to the decisions of his ever-loving mother (Maria Amélia), football took precedence over music – with the latter being kept as an important part of his personality. To this day, Nuno can always do these two activities with pleasure.
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