6 things every footballer can learn from Noa Lang

Let's be honest: Noa Lang is a case of you-either-love-it-or-hate-it. But whether you're a fan or not, there's one thing we can all agree on: this man does everything his way. And that's exactly why I like him so much. Yesterday was one of those days when he showed a side of himself that many footballers could learn from. Curious what I'm talking about? I'll lay it all out for you and start with yesterday – the day PSV became champions for the 26th time.

1. Respect your opponent (even if it's your rival)

First up: why Noa is a role model for many footballers. During the championship celebration of PSV, Noa refused to jump to a negative song about Ajax. A teammate who was filming shouted: “Jump then, jump then!” while supporters sang loudly: “And whoever doesn't jump is a Jew.” Noa simply said: “No, no.” And stood calmly.

@voetbalprimeur ”Does Noa Lang still feel something for Ajax? 💪 When Lang is asked to jump, the forward refuses to participate!” ❌🙏 #psv #ajax #lang ♬ original sound – voetbalprimeur

A small moment perhaps, but with a big message. Ajax is his old club and despite his departure, he remains loyal. In a time when football sometimes veers into hate, Noa is truly a role model here. Other footballers could take a cue from this action by Noa.

2. Stay true to yourself in the football world

“You can say what you want, but I am mentally very strong,” says Noa in an interview with ESPN. And he radiates that. Lang is not afraid to express his opinion, to speak out against racism or inequality, or to wear a daring outfit. Authenticity above all. No rehearsed quotes, but real words with character. Okay, yes – that means some people can't handle him. But that doesn't bother him at all. Mood. More footballers should take a cue from that.

3. Noa dares to act

On the field, Noa is a real showman. He plays with guts – and not just a little. He dares to make moves, take risks, and entertain the crowd with it. Not because he wants to be the clown, but because he loves the game. And yes, sometimes it goes wrong. But at least he dares to try. Other players can really learn something from that: not always going for the safe ball, but challenging yourself. Football is also entertainment, and daring to act is exactly what makes Noa so special.

4. Noa Lang opens up

NAWW. An athlete who shows his tears on camera? Yep, that's Noa Lang – quite a bit cute.
In an interview with ESPN, he learned how proud his mother is of him. The journalist had spoken to her the day before the interview. Noa had to swallow hard and said: “It touches me, yes. My mother knows it hasn't always been easy.” He had to shed a tear.

He also openly talks about his mental struggles as a teenager in that same interview: “I dare say that I've been depressed at times. That I woke up and just didn't feel like it. But I've always fought my way through it.” Let's be honest: how many players do you hear talk so openly? More vulnerability please, because it doesn't make you weak, but rather real.

@psvAn emotional Noa Lang 🥹❤️♬ original sound – psv

5. Never give up

Next: injuries – ugh. For all the sporty girls, it's relatable: it can really be terrible and feel like a black hole. Noa Lang was sidelined for more than 150 days last year with a hamstring injury – phew. But he didn't complain when he came back. He made a comeback like you want to see. Other footballers can learn something essential from this: injuries are part of it, but how you deal with them determines whether you come back as the same player or as a stronger version of yourself. Here you can read about 3 books to improve your life.

6. Use your platform for more than just football

Last but not least (and you can learn something from this too): Instagram. Yes, we all know that footballers have a lot of followers. But Noa uses that reach wisely. Not just to share goals and sponsorship deals, but also to speak out on social issues and give his followers a glimpse into who he is off the field. That makes him approachable and relevant. He's doing it smartly. And why can you learn from this? Social media increases your reach and makes you more known. Need help finding your way on Instagram? Here are some nice facts.