‘Proud’ Eduardo Camavinga on journey from refugee to Champions League final

Published 19:34 27 May 2022 BST

Updated 19:48 27 May 2022 BST

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‘Proud’ Eduardo Camavinga on journey from refugee to Champions League final

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'I hope the millions of refugees around the world who also love football know that we stand together'

Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga has spoken of his pride at representing refugees across the world as he prepares for this weekend's Champions League final against Liverpool. Camavinga, who completed a transfer to the Spanish capital from Rennes last year, was born in a refugee camp in Angola before moving to France with his family at the age of two. He has since represented France at senior level, becoming the youngest player to do so in over 100 years in the process. The 19-year-old is eager to use his platform to amplify a message of solidarity with refugees across the world, and is backing the UNHCR's Football4Refugees appeal.

Camavinga's message of solidarity for refugees

Speaking ahead of Saturday's final in Paris, he said: "I was born in a refugee camp in Angola after my family fled war. My parents brought me to a new life in France and football has brought me to the Champions League final. "I'm grateful to play and proud to do so as a former refugee. I hope the millions of refugees around the world who also love football know that we stand together." Camavinga has made 39 appearances for Los Blancos throughout his debut season and came on from the bench in their dramatic late comeback against Manchester City in the semi-final. His mature performances in Carlo Ancelotti's midfield have seen him tipped to be a long-term successor to the ageing duo of Toni Kroos and Luka Modric.

Football4Refugees

The Football4Refugees appeal has been created to unite the global football community in raising critical funds to provide humanitarian assistance and protection for people forced to flee their homes by conflict, war or persecution. Camavinga has been joined by fellow footballers Lucy Bronze, Lionel Messi, Asmir Begovic and Alphonso Davies in pledging his support, with singer Camilla Cabello also lending her backing. It was announced during the week that the Champions League ball for Saturday night will be auctioned after the game, with proceeds donated to the UNHCR and United Nations refugee agency.