Georges-Kévin Nkoudou has rediscovered his spark in front of goal, thanks in part to advice from former Tottenham Hotspur teammate Harry Kane. The Cameroon international has scored 23 goals for Saudi Pro League side Damac since joining in August 2023, including 15 strikes in the 2023/24 season—his best-ever tally.
Nkoudou, who played alongside Kane at Spurs between 2016 and 2019, frequently recalls the wisdom shared by the England captain during their time together in north London.
“I’ve never seen a goalscorer like Harry,” Nkoudou told BBC Sport Africa. “Some of my goals at Damac are because I think about what Kane told me. He always said, ‘You need to be calm.’ I wasn’t used to being in front of goal as a winger, but now I’m more composed and confident because of that advice.”
Growing Through Tough Times at Spurs
Nkoudou’s three-year stint at Tottenham was challenging, with limited opportunities under then-manager Mauricio Pochettino. He made just 27 appearances in all competitions, interspersed with loan spells at Burnley and Monaco. However, the 29-year-old reflects on that period as an essential chapter in his development.
“When I got the chance to go to England, I didn’t hesitate—it was a dream come true,” Nkoudou said. “It was tough adapting to a new culture, language, and style of play, but I grew up as a man and learned a lot about football. Even though I didn’t play much, I made myself stronger and improved from training with great players.”
Nkoudou holds no grudges about his limited playing time, expressing gratitude to Pochettino: “When I left, I texted him to say thank you. That experience helped shape me into the player I am today.”
Embracing Cameroon and the World Stage
Although born in Versailles and capped for France at youth levels, Nkoudou made his senior debut for Cameroon in 2022, fulfilling his family’s wish for him to represent his mother’s homeland.
“It was an easy decision after speaking to my family and friends,” Nkoudou said. “It’s a big honour to play for Cameroon.”
His highlight came at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where he represented the Indomitable Lions in two matches. “Nothing compares to the World Cup,” he said. “As an African team, you’re not the favorite, but you give everything for your country.”
Eyeing AFCON 2025 Glory
Nkoudou has seen limited international minutes under both Rigobert Song and current head coach Marc Brys. However, he seized his chance in November’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifier against Zimbabwe, earning man-of-the-match honors with a goal and an assist in a 2-1 victory.
“I’m not the loudest in the dressing room, but I thrive on challenges,” he said. “When I play, I know I can make a difference.”
Nkoudou is now focused on cementing his place in the starting XI ahead of the AFCON 2025 finals in Morocco this December. He believes Cameroon, five-time continental champions, are strong contenders under Brys’ leadership.
“The team’s quality has improved under the new coach. Everyone knows their role better, and the results show it,” Nkoudou said. “This AFCON is a great opportunity for Cameroon to reclaim the crown.”
From his growth at Spurs to his rise in Saudi Arabia and Cameroon, Nkoudou credits resilience, hard work, and the timeless advice of Harry Kane for his continued success.
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