Adrian Mariappa is one of many former Premier League stars set to feature in the highly anticipated Baller League UK.
The 38-year-old was drafted by Arsenal legends Jens Lehmann, Robert Pires, and Freddie Ljungberg for their side, N5 FC.
They’ll take to the pitch on Monday, March 24, in the league’s opening match against Angry Ginge’s Yanited, marking the start of this landmark competition.
Who Is Adrian Mariappa?
Born in Harrow, Mariappa joined Watford’s academy at just eight years old. Despite nearly being released by the club, he made his first-team debut at 18 in a League Cup match against Notts County.
Renowned for his pace, strength, and composure at the back, Mariappa went on to make 340 appearances for Watford across two spells, including 100 in the Premier League.
He captained the club on several occasions, cementing his status as a legend for The Hornets.
Beyond Watford, Mariappa enjoyed stints in the Premier League with Reading and Crystal Palace, while also earning 73 caps for Jamaica, scoring once.
Following his departure from Watford for the second time in 2020, he dropped down the leagues and played for Bristol City, Burton Albion, and Salford City, while also spending time in Australia with Macarthur FC.
In 2024, he signed a short-term deal with Wealdstone in the National League, making 34 appearances before leaving the following summer.
Throughout his career, Adrian Mariappa was the subject of several big money bids, with Reading reportedly paying £3 million for his services in 2012.
Now 38, Mariappa brings a wealth of Premier League experience and know-how to N5 FC, making him a major star in the Baller League.
Who Will Adrian Mariappa Be Playing With?
N5 FC have put together a team riddled with quality for their Baller League opener. Alongside Adrian Mariappa, former Chelsea academy graduate Charlie Wakefield and ex Stoke striker James Alabi are two other high-profile names that leap out from their roster.
The full squad is as follows: Owen Locke, Adrian Mariappa, Brian Ly, Charlie Wakefield, Dayo Adekayo, Chris Arba, Imran Kahani, Michael Class, James Alabi, Troy Molunda, Freddie Berrati, Callum Charlton.
What Is The Baller League UK?
Fronted by YouTuber KSI, the Baller League is a 12-team, six-a-side football tournament designed to crown the ultimate champions of the small-sided game.
Matches consist of two 15-minute halves, with no corners. In the final three minutes of each half, special rules known as ‘gamechangers’ come into play.
These include a 3 vs 3 format, double points for long-range strikes, and goalkeepers unable to use their hands.
Originally created in Germany, a star-studded cast has been drafted in to make the first edition of the UK Baller League the ultimate spectacle.
Alongside ex-pros like Luis Figo, John Terry, and Gary Lineker, celebrity names such as Maya Jama, rapper Dave, and Miniminter will be leading their own teams from the dugout.
All games will be streamed live on Sky Sports, with the competition running until June.
READ MORE: Everything You Need To Know About Charlie Wakefield From Baller League UK
