British Muslim, Zesh Rehman, 28, was told that his Asian background would prevent him from making a career in football but the former Premier League defender has proved anything is possible and is now inspiring a new generation of people and Asian footballers through his success in Asia. We caught up with Zesh to talk about football in Asia, the recent racism issues in UK football and the work of his foundation.
Having signed for the Hong Kong Premier League side just six months ago, Zesh has settled into his new surroundings seamlessly. An ever present at the heart of Kitchee’s defence, the Pakistan international has lifted the Championship title, won the domestic League Cup and FA Cup, and reached the last 16 of the Asian Football Confederation Cup, in what has been a record-breaking campaign for the team.
“I am really enjoying life out in Hong Kong,” said Zesh, one of the games leading ambassadors striving for equality. “There is a fantastic set-up at Kitchee and the standard of football is very good. It was such a good feeling to win my first trophy as a professional footballer, but then to go on and do the treble was an amazing feeling – and it has given me the bug to win more.
Off the pitch, Zesh, 28, continues to inspire a new generation of young people both in the UK and internationally.
