French footballer N'Golo Kanté donates $5 million to build hospital in Mali

N’Golo Kanté is still assisting, just not in midfield this time.


Pop Culture & Art April 15, 2025

N’Golo Kanté is showing the world that his impact goes far beyond the football pitch.

The beloved French international midfielder has funded a brand-new, state-of-the-art hospital in Mali, a $5 million project that reflects both his generosity and his deep-rooted connection to his family’s homeland.

Born in Paris to Malian parents, the 33-year-old footballer has always stayed close to his roots.

In fact, Kanté was named after Mali’s emperor, Ngolo Diarra, a sign of the pride his family takes in their heritage.

Despite his rise to global football stardom from winning the Premier League with Leicester City and Chelsea, to lifting the UEFA Champions League trophy and the 2018 FIFA World Cup with France, Kanté has remained humble and grounded.

Now playing for Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad, Kanté reportedly earns around $25 million annually, according to Business Day.

Yet, he’s using that wealth not for excess, but to invest in change.

The new hospital, located in Mali’s capital, Bamako, is a continuation of his mission to uplift disadvantaged communities, particularly by improving healthcare for children.

In previous interviews, Kanté has emphasized his desire to help families in need, and this project speaks directly to that commitment. It’s also garnered wide praise across social media.

One Facebook user commented under the announcement: “Mali is so proud of you, N’golo Kante, as well as we Africans as a whole. Kudos to you, the true son of the soil, for your help.” Another added, “He is good not only on the pitch but has got a golden heart. His genuine heart will make him remembered from generation to generation.”

Known as a midfield maestro, Kanté’s reputation as a tireless and selfless player is now matched by his off-the-field legacy. With this hospital initiative, he’s shown that he’s not just winning matches — he’s winning hearts.

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