'Ramadan means being closer to God' - footballers embrace fasting during holy month

Manchester United’s Amad Diallo recently scored the winning goal against Liverpool in the FA Cup sixth round at Old Trafford after 123 minutes and 57 seconds. It was dramatic, a 4-3 scoreline and the best moment both of the Ivorian’s career so far and of United’s season.

What few in the crowd knew was that Diallo was fasting for Ramadan. Extra time meant his goal was scored at 6.11pm local time, seven minutes before sunset in Manchester. Sunset was when he was allowed to break his fast and begin Iftar – taking on food or drink or the first time since before sunrise. By the time the sun did set, he was back in the changing rooms having been sent off for a second yellow card for taking his shirt off during his goal celebration. He was mentally energised from his achievements, but also now able to refuel his body.

Two days before the game, Diallo received a pack containing a travel prayer mat, ceramic jars to put dates in honey, prayer beads, Zamzam water (sacred holy water taken from a well in Makkah) and attar perfume, an oil-based scent commonly worn by men in the Middle East. Muslim players at all 92 clubs in the top four levels of English football have received one of these over the past four years – over 250 players across the leagues.

The following week at United’s Carrington training ground, the club’s Muslim employees held an Iftar in which coaches, physios, operational staff and players Diallo and Nikita Paris attended. There, a fantastic spread of Middle Eastern and North African food was put on by club chefs in the first team canteen. Manager Erik ten Hag called in to meet and greet all those there and offer his support. The group also prayed. Diallo was also present and told club media it was “very important”