Rayan Kolli, a promising 20-year-old winger for Queens Park Rangers (QPR), is making strides in his football career while staying true to his roots in West London. Part of the reason is that Kolli joined the club’s academy at barely eight years old. Since then, he’s emerged as a linchpin, displaying dazzling footwork and producing jaw-dropping saves. He’s now scored four goals and registered two assists in only nine starts on the season. Today, he looks back on that journey and the influence of his childhood hero, Roberto Baggio.
The prospects of a blossoming superstar Kolli’s deep-seated passion for the world’s most popular sport started at the age of three or four. His father only discovered his talent when he caught him kicking a ball while watching Algeria play. That initial spark of interest ignited a lifelong passion for the sport, which eventually landed him in QPR’s youth academy. Today, as he tackles the unique demands of professional football, Kolli is driven to continue his development and take his game to another level.
A Career in the Making
Kolli’s commitment to football has been unwavering. He calls his life a “24/7 sport” lifestyle. He candidly shares about how difficult it is for him to unplug from the game, even when in the summer break. “I start panicking if I take a day or two off from football,” he shared, highlighting his dedication and ambition.
That has made this season a game changer for Kolli. He commented on feeling the most engaged in and closest to first-team football than ever. Having fought the injury bug last year, he’s chomping at the bit to show what he can do. This year was a little bit of a coming out party, but for me a true coming out party is 10, 15 goals. That’s the depth I’m looking for … that’s the level I want to get to,” Kolli said.
His performance to date has definitely not escaped our attention. The young winger’s numbers indicate just how dangerous he can be for the team. He is obviously motivated to maintain his position in the team. That’s his goal for every season, to play 50 to 60 games. He knows that developing regular working knowledge is key to moving up his career path.
Idolizing Roberto Baggio
Kolli’s early admiration for Italian legend Roberto Baggio has imprinted on his style of play long after the childhood hero roamed the pitch. As a young player, he can remember yearningly watching highlights of the great Italian striker. Baggio’s technical skill, artistic intelligence on the field, and alluring personality completely bewitched him. “One player I’ve always liked is Roberto Baggio. My dad showed me clips of him. I loved how technical and smart he was,” said Kolli.
Just as important to him, that Baggio played football with a rawness in touch and spirit that electrified people. “Football felt more raw back then. I think a lot of them would boss the game today,” he remarked. This influence has crafted the way that Kolli approaches each game, aiming for the most aesthetically pleasing style possible, just like his idol.
I want to excel. I continue to strive to do better and to surpass every “best milestone” I reach. I don’t want to pigeonhole myself,” he added, underscoring his desire to continue taking risks and exploring new creative avenues.
The Road Ahead
As Kolli grows into his game, he will be presented with an interesting dichotomy— threat & opportunity. From that young child playing football on the streets of West London. With determination and commitment, he made the journey from his hometown to pursue his dreams as a professional athlete. With each match, he hopes to play an even bigger role in helping QPR achieve their goals.
Kolli dreams of more than mere personal success. He’s seen that here, and he wants to be on a team that plays and competes at those levels. He knows that, even more than ever, it’s all about the game and he’s committed to helping you make each one matter.
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