N’Golo Kanté, the unassuming midfield maestro, has captured the hearts of football fans worldwide with his exceptional skills, work ethic, and humble demeanor. Beyond the football pitch, there are intriguing aspects of his life that often go unnoticed. Here are 13 interesting things that few people know about the gentle guy, N’Golo Kanté:

1. **Quiet Beginnings**: Born on March 29, 1991, in Paris, France, N’Golo Kanté’s journey to football stardom began in the modest surroundings of the city’s suburbs.

2. **Late Bloomer**: Kanté’s rise to prominence in professional football was anything but traditional. He spent several years playing in the lower leagues of French football before making a name for himself at the highest level.

3. **Educated Athlete**: Despite his football success, Kanté values education. He earned a degree in vocational accounting while pursuing his football career.

4. **Positional Versatility**: Known for his exceptional ball-winning abilities, Kanté is incredibly versatile on the field. While primarily a defensive midfielder, he has showcased his adaptability by excelling in various midfield roles.

5. **Homage to Family**: The word “N’Golo” pays homage to his Malian heritage, as it means “to be strong” in the Malian language.

6. **French Roots, Malian Heart**: Kanté is of Malian descent, and he proudly represents this heritage. His story resonates with many immigrants who dream of making it big in the world of football.

7. **Unusual Diet**: Kanté’s diet is as unassuming as his personality. Unlike some footballers with elaborate dietary restrictions, he is known to enjoy a simple diet, often opting for meals like rice and chicken.

8. **Love for the VW**: Despite earning a substantial income, Kanté has maintained a low-key lifestyle. He famously drove a modest Volkswagen during Leicester City’s title-winning campaign in the 2015-2016 season.

9. **Generosity Off the Pitch**: Kanté is not just a winner on the field; he is also a winner in the hearts of many. Known for his philanthropy, he reportedly donates a significant portion of his salary to charitable causes.

10. **Shy and Reserved**: Kanté is renowned for his unassuming and reserved nature off the pitch. Despite achieving immense success, he shies away from the spotlight and prefers to let his football do the talking.

11. **World Cup Winner**: In 2018, Kanté played a pivotal role in France’s FIFA World Cup triumph. His performances earned him widespread acclaim, further solidifying his status as one of the best midfielders in the world.

12. **PFA Player of the Year**: In the 2016-2017 season, Kanté’s exceptional performances for Chelsea led to him being named the PFA Player of the Year, an honor rarely bestowed upon defensive midfielders.

13. **Inspirational Journey**: N’Golo Kanté’s journey from the lower tiers of French football to becoming a global football icon serves as an inspiration to aspiring players worldwide. His success story is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and staying true to oneself.

As N’Golo Kanté continues to enchant football fans with his performances, these 13 facts offer a glimpse into the life of the gentle guy who has not only conquered the football world but has done so with grace, humility, and a touch of quiet brilliance.