West Ham forward Viviane Asseyi reflects on childhood dreams, Zidane inspiration and finding a second family in east London

West Ham United forward Viviane Asseyi has spoken about how watching the 1998 World Cup inspired her childhood ambition to play football professionally and emulate Zinedine Zidane. In a recent interview, the 32-year-old French player reflected on her upbringing, her Gabonese heritage, and her path to the Women's Super League.

Early Inspirations and Family Support

Growing up in France with Gabonese parents, Asseyi was four years old when France won the 1998 World Cup. Inspired by the victory, she asked her mother for a football and declared her ambition to play like Zinedine Zidane. Despite her family playfully teasing her about being skinny at the time, they supported her goals. School teachers were initially skeptical when she stated her career aspirations due to the low visibility of women's football at the time, but her friends and family backed her dedication.

Journey to Clairefontaine and Professional Career

Asseyi's talent led her to train in Normandy clubs before earning admission to France's prestigious national football centre at Clairefontaine, an elite facility where she studied alongside future professionals like Alphonse Areola and Raphaël Guerreiro. Moving away from home at a young age prepared her for a nomadic career that included spells with Rouen, Montpellier, Marseille, Bordeaux, and a two-year stint with Bayern Munich in Germany, before moving to West Ham in 2022.

Leadership and Looking Ahead at West Ham

Now in her fifth season with West Ham and serving as vice-captain, Asseyi has made 117 appearances for the club, putting her on track to approach the club's WSL-era appearance record held by Kate Longhurst.

• Current Team Status: West Ham secured two wins from their opening seven league matches.
• Leadership Role: As an experienced squad member, Asseyi helps foster team culture and standard-setting.

Reflecting on her journey as a visible Black female athlete, Asseyi noted that childhood idols like Serena Williams inspired her, and she now recognizes the importance of being a positive role model for the next generation. Fans and readers interested in verifying team news or player statistics can consult official club announcements and the Women's Super League portal.