Disappearance, birthday... zanetti's hilarious anecdotes about Taribo West!

Teammate of Taribo West at Inter Milan between 1997 and 1999, the iconic Nerazzurri captain, Javier Zanetti, shared some funny anecdotes about the legendary left-back of Nigeria's Super Eagles, who celebrates his 51st birthday today.

Known for his eccentric hairstyles, the illustrious midfielder of the "Super Eagles" of Nigeria, Taribo West reached the top-tier European level by donning the colors of both Milan rivals, namely AC Milan and Inter, with whom he won the UEFA Cup in 1998.

Recognizable by his unique style both on and off the pitch, "Tahiti Bob," as he was fondly called in Lagos, left lasting memories with the "Nerazzurri" (1997-1999), particularly with the captain of that time, Javier Zanetti.

Indeed, in an impromptu chat with former Italian striker Christian Vieri, the Inter legend shared a delightful anecdote:

"One year, he disappeared for the entire month of January. We were looking for him, and he returned on February 1st. Upon his return, he told me: 'Captain, I got married. In my country, that’s how it works, it's a month-long vacation.'"

"Taribo West was truly unique!"

The man with 858 appearances for Inter Milan (1995-2014) will never forget a famous birthday organized by the flamboyant Nigerian:

"Taribo West was truly unique. There was also the time he invited us to his birthday at around 7 PM. When we arrived, he started praying. One hour, two hours, three hours... We were incredibly hungry! But the birthday ended just like that. In the end, we left without eating..."

Javier Zanetti's comments on video:

Zanetti would therefore not be surprised to learn that after hanging up his boots, the 1996 Olympic champion with the Super Eagles became a... Pentecostal pastor!

Amine Jomni |

Editorfr

African football writer and sports journalist covering football news, stories and insights while sharing his expertise with fans across the continent.