'Torky' Ahmed, an Egyptian footballer, hitting the ground with Seoul Calcio FC

Warming-up for the game, wearing his water blue Nike boots. Credit: Seoul Calcio FC

The journey didn't begin in a stadium under floodlights; it started on the pavement. At just six years old, 'Torky' Ahmed found his rhythm playing with friends in the streets of his Egyptian hometown. It was there, long before he became a 30-year-old right-winger representing Seoul Calcion FC, that he discovered his true self. For him, the game was never just a pastime; it was a sanctuary that became part of his identity, "a place where I felt free, confident, and alive”. told the winger to La 10co. This early connection shaped his definition of what it means to be an athlete. It isn't merely about wearing a jersey or possessing natural skill. To Ahmed, the title is earned through the grind of daily improvement. He believes an athlete is defined by “the willingness to train, improve, sacrifice, and push personal limits every single day”. When life took him thousands of miles away to South Korea, the transition could have been isolating. However, the universal language of football provided a bridge. Joining Seoul Calcio FC transformed his experience in the country, turning a foreign city into a familiar landscape. He credits the team with a profound shift in his daily life: The team "made Korea feel like home. The team gave me a family, friendships, and a place where I can truly express myself", said Ahmed to La 10co.

Kick-off with Matteo Cerica

His drive is fueled by deep-rooted inspirations. He plays to honor his father, who first encouraged him to pick up the sport. Credit: Seoul Calcio FC

He still vividly remembers the day he realized he had found the right club. It was during his trial session, standing on the pitch under the scrutiny of the coaching staff. The atmosphere was different—professional and intense. “The coach (Matteo Cerica) welcomed me warmly, observed my movement... At that moment, I realized this team had structure, passion, and spirit", revealed Ahmed. Football became his motivation during difficult periods, teaching him how to handle time and maintain equilibrium Over the years, his perspective on the game has matured.

The younger version of Ahmed might have focused on individual glory, but the 30-year-old winger now understands the mechanics of victory differently. He has learned that “football is not won by individuals but by collective effort”.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EupCe8TJITg

His ambition is grounded in profound influences..

He plays to honor his father, who first encouraged him to pick up the sport, and he looks to the resilience of outstanding professionals like Arjen Robben. Yet, no matter how settled he is in Incheon or elsewhere, his heart beats for Cairo. He is a die-hard supporter of Al Ahly SC. The emotional peak of his life as a fan isn't a vague memory—it is precise. It is the African Champions League final between Al Ahly and Zamalek

"Mohamed Magdy Afsha’s -Al Ahly SC- goal in the 85th minute is the happiest moment of my life” | Ahmed

Through football, 'Torky' Ahmed has absorbed values that guide him through every challenge. The game has been his toughest mentor, building a resilience that applies to every aspect of life**:** 'The game taught me how to stand up after every fall and fight again. *** RELATED STORIES

Credit: Seoul Calcio FC

The beautiful game of football has always been a universal language, transcending borders and cultures. For Leonardo, a 34-year-old central defender from Santa Croce sull'Arno, Pisa, his passion for the sport—passed down from his father, an FC Inter supporter—has found new life in the vibrant capital of South Korea with Seoul Calcio FC. His story is one of renewed dedication, a commitment to team growth, and the influential guidance of coach Matteo Cerica. Read more