Aaron Wan-Bissaka's first football shirt

My Football Firsts | Aaron Wan-Bissaka

First game you watched live as a supporter?

It was Crystal Palace against Huddersfield in the EFL Championship just before Christmas in 2012, and it ended in a 1-1 draw. We all went as a team when we were in Palace’s youth academy. It was at Selhurst Park, and it was a memorable day as Wilfried Zaha scored for Palace.

 

First football hero?

Thierry Henry. My brother liked him, and I always followed everything he did growing up. I liked the way he carried himself and other players on the pitch, his confidence and how he scored his goals.

 

First football boots?

I think mine were black and white Puma Kings. Classic boots!

Aaron Wan-Bissaka's first hero Thierry Henry

First kit?

I had no idea what my first kit was until I saw a photo of myself in a Manchester United kit. I couldn’t remember the time that I had it!

 

First mentor in football?

I would say my Dad was my first mentor in football. He was a mentor for both me and my brother, and I’ve felt that at every moment throughout my career. He took me to training and to games, and you don’t realise the sacrifices he had to make until you get older.
 

First professional game?

It was Crystal Palace against Tottenham. I remember the day and how nervous I was on the day before, leading up to the game. It was against Tottenham in February 2018, and I played well.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka's first senior appearance for Crystal Palace

First professional goal?

It was for Manchester United against Newcastle during the COVID-19 pandemic. The ball came to me at the end of a counter-attack and I managed to hit the roof of the net with it. You could hear the net as well, that’s when you know it’s a good effort!

 

First red card?

It was against Liverpool. [Mohammed] Salah was one-on-one with the keeper after a corner, and I managed to catch up with him but ended up taking one for the team. He was quite smart about it, though I’m not sure it would have been given if there was VAR!

 

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West Ham United v Wolverhampton Wanderers