‘Metro Man’, the World Cup’s social media sensation
A man from Kenya has become a fan favourite with his method of directing people to the metro station
Abubakr Abbass, a 23-year-old from Kenya, has emerged as a fan favourite – and accidental social media sensation – during the football World Cup in Qatar.
Sitting on a tennis-umpire chair and armed with a large foam finger, he guides the hundreds of fans visiting Souq Waqif to the metro station nearby with the help of his trusty megaphone.
Abbass’s helpful advice – “Metro? This way. Metro? This way” – has now become a famous catchphrase.
“We love him; we love the metro guy,” one fan said, motioning towards Abbass.
“I saw him on TikTok. I thought it was really funny. He makes me laugh; it’s such a simple task,” commented a young fan wearing a Chelsea football shirt.
People visiting Souq Waqif regularly interact with Abbass, engaging in back-and-forths and creating pantomime-like scenes.
Not much is known about the Kenyan, but the mysterious social media star has earned plaudits for bringing enthusiasm to an otherwise mundane task.
“He’s really, really enjoying his job”, said one impressed fan.
Abbass is now inspiring other workers to join in the fun, with many now donning his trademark foam finger and providing fans with directions in creative ways.