Djed Spence Biography: The Inspiring Journey of England’s First Muslim International

Djed Spence is a professional footballer who has captured the attention of the footballing world not just for his performances on the pitch, but also for his remarkable personal journey and his role as a pioneer. Born Diop Tehuti Djed-Hotep Spence on August 9, 2000, in London.

He is a full-back for Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur and the England national team. His career is a testament to perseverance, having been released by Fulham’s academy as a teenager before rebuilding his path through Middlesbrough, Nottingham Forest, and eventually Tottenham. In September 2025, he made history by becoming the first Muslim player to represent the senior England men’s national team, a milestone that has resonated deeply with fans and athletes around the world.

Djed Spence’s Religion

Djed Spence is a Muslim, and his faith is a central and openly discussed part of his identity both on and off the pitch. His religious beliefs have not only shaped his personal life but also made him a historic figure in English football. When he made his England debut in a World Cup qualifier against Serbia in September 2025, he became the first Muslim player to represent the senior men’s team.

Spence speaks openly about the role of Islam in his life. He has stated: My time with God. That’s the one thing off the pitch I never rush. Whatever religion you believe in, just believe in God. God is the greatest for me personally, and he never lets you down. He described his debut as a blessed feeling and expressed a desire to inspire others: It’s great to make history, and I hope to inspire children around the world to believe they can achieve what I have.

His post-match prayers have become a powerful symbol of diversity within English football. During the 2026 World Cup, a photo of Spence performing an Islamic prayer after England’s victory over Norway, which secured their place in the semi-finals, was widely described as iconic and a significant moment highlighting Britain’s diversity.

Djed Spence’s Jaw Injury and Protective Mask

One of the most distinctive features of Djed Spence’s appearance during the 2026 World Cup has been the custom-made protective face mask and jaw brace he wears on the pitch. This is not a fashion choice but a necessary medical precaution following a significant injury.

Spence suffered a broken jaw in May 2026 during a Premier League match for Tottenham Hotspur against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. The injury occurred in an aerial challenge when he was struck in the face by the elbow of Chelsea striker Liam Delap. Despite the fracture, Spence remarkably played on until full-time and returned to action just five days later, wearing a protective mask, to help Tottenham secure a crucial victory.

Medical experts estimate that a broken jaw can take up to three months to fully heal, which meant Spence had to wear the protective gear for the entirety of the World Cup. The mask is a custom-molded, carbon-fiber shield designed to absorb shocks and protect his healing jawbone, allowing him to confidently head the ball and engage in physical duels. Spence admitted the headgear was a little bit uncomfortable and difficult to deal with in the heat but jokingly reassured fans it wouldn’t affect his game because he plays football with his feet, not his jaw.

Djed Spence’s Handshake Incident

During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Djed Spence was at the center of a controversy regarding the pre-match handshake with Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey. Before England’s Group L match against Ghana on June 23, 2026, Spence appeared to deliberately avoid shaking hands with Partey, keeping his hand in his pocket as he passed the Ghanaian player while shaking hands with others. The incident sparked significant backlash from Ghanaian fans and criticism from some journalists who interpreted it as a sign of disrespect.

The context behind the incident is crucial. In the build-up to the fixture, the England Football Association acknowledged discussions over whether players should take part in the customary pre-match handshake with Partey, who is currently standing trial in the United Kingdom on multiple charges of sexual assault and rape involving four women between 2020 and 2025. The FA ultimately left the decision to individual players. Spence’s actions were widely viewed as a reflection of the debate and his personal stance on the matter. Partey has vehemently denied all allegations against him.

Djed Spence’s Personal Life and Wife

Djed Spence is currently believed to be single. According to available records, there is no confirmed information about him being married or having a wife. He is known to focus heavily on his football career, and his personal life remains relatively private. Some unverified reports have suggested a relationship with Ukrainian model Yuliana Yasimova, but these have been corrected as unfounded.

Djed Spence’s Position: Left or Right-Back?

Djed Spence is a versatile full-back who is capable of playing on both the left and right sides of the defense. While he is naturally right-footed and his primary position is right-back, he has increasingly been deployed as a left-back in recent seasons. This versatility has become a key asset for both Tottenham Hotspur and the England national team, offering tactical flexibility to his managers.

According to statistics from the 2025-26 season, 32 of his 44 appearances for Tottenham came at left-back, underlining his effectiveness in that role. At the 2026 World Cup, he continued to operate primarily as a left-back, including in the goalless draw against Ghana. However, he is also a natural right-back, and his ability to play on either flank makes him a valuable and adaptable defender.

Djed Spence’s Career Journey

Djed Spence began his football journey at Fulham’s academy but was released as a teenager. This setback could have ended his dreams, but he persevered and joined Middlesbrough’s academy. He made his first-team debut for Middlesbrough in August 2019 and quickly established himself as a promising young full-back.

His breakthrough came during a loan spell at Nottingham Forest in the 2021-22 season. He played a crucial role in Forest’s promotion to the Premier League, earning a place in the EFL Championship Team of the Season and winning the Young Player of the Season award. His performances caught the attention of Tottenham Hotspur, who signed him in July 2022.

After loan spells at Rennes and Leeds United, Spence returned to Tottenham and established himself as a regular starter in the 2025-26 season, making 44 appearances across all competitions. His form earned him a call-up to the England national team, and he made his senior debut in September 2025 against Serbia.

Djed Spence’s journey from being released by Fulham’s academy to becoming a history-making England international is nothing short of remarkable. His faith, resilience, and determination have made him an inspiration to countless young footballers around the world. As the first Muslim player to represent the senior England men’s team, he has broken barriers and shown that with hard work and belief, anything is possible.

Whether it’s his protective jaw mask, his decision to stand by his principles in the handshake incident, or his performances on the pitch, Djed Spence has become one of the most talked-about players in world football. At just 26 years old, his career is still on an upward trajectory, and the football world will be watching closely to see what he achieves next.