Most professional football players, especially those playing in one of the big five European football leagues, earn salaries that range from “good” to “incredible.” Sadio Mané, Senegalese winger for English Premier League football club Liverpool, is no exception - but what is an exception could be his approach to spending the money he earns. That he was different from a stereotypical football player first came to light when the paparazzi noticed his phone’s screen was cracked and asked him about it.
He said he didn’t see the point in spending money on a new phone when his old one was still working, and revealed what he instead considers a more worthwhile investment. “I was hungry, and I had to work in the field; I survived hard times, played football barefooted, I did not have an education and many other things, but today with what I earn thanks to football, I can help my people,” he told the press, adding, “I built schools, a stadium, we provide clothes, shoes, food for people who are in extreme poverty.
In addition, I give 70 euros per month to all people in a very poor region of Senegal which contributes to their family economy.” Mané’s story could serve as an example of how easily life is improved for those living in extreme poverty - but instead of relying on the goodwill of a few rich people, we should have a system which lets everyone live a dignified life, either through a set income or through free access to basic services. That way, Mane would not have to feed entire villages - nor would they have to wonder what they will do once he retires.
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