CHILD’S v ARSENAL Today KO 4pm PLAY
Tragic youngsters inspire £32m Mangala to come good at City
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eurk: @peoplesport ( ELA), which fights against a genetic disorder, and for its partner organisation Face Au Monde (Facing The World).
It brings a perspective that can be often lost in the crazy, money-fuelled world of the Premier League.
Mangala, who has joined France legend Zidane in supporting the cause, said: “I had the chance to meet families who are full of human warmth and values of courage.
“I got to take some photos with children and see their big smiles. They all received me very well in that great family and I was touched by their fight.”
Facing The World brings children from the poorest countries to France to have facial operations, with the average cost of each operation £12,500.
In 2014 it carried out five operations and had to postpone one as the victim has the ebola virus. It hopes to carry out 10 operations in 2015.
Said Mangala: “It’s true that Zinedine Zidane is a driving force for all of us. But the idea is to help publicise the fight of families affected by leukodystrophy.
“I’m conscious that not everybody has my luck of being in good condition and being able to fulfil my dreams as a professional footballer. I’m all the more conscious of it as my brother lives with a handicap, so getting involved with the ELA seemed natural.
“First I think I have to be available for the families.
“As long as my job allows it, I’ll participate in different events which enhance the association’s life.
“Then I’ll try to be the best messenger possible of the ELA’s fight in the media. The idea is to have an effect on the general public.”
Blip
Luckily for Mangala, Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini reckons the rocky start to his City career is merely a temporary blip.
“The thing that is important is to analyse his performance at the end of the season. It is difficult at this moment to decide,” said Pellegrini.
“I agree that he is not doing so well in some games, but in other games he is a sensation and has been very important for us.
“I hope he will continue improving and be very important for us.
“He is a young player and I continue trusting a lot in the way that he plays. Maybe it was not so easy for him to settle here in t he Premier League but I am absolutely sure he will be a very important player for us in a few years.
“Cristiano Ronaldo came from the same Portuguese league. I think the problem is this league because it is very difficult.
“He is still a young player but one with a lot of experience because he played a lot of Champions League games against important teams.
“Be patient, because he is a very good player.”