Norwich City and Republic of Ireland striker Adam Idah has delivered a raw and honest account of the vicious online abuse footballers face, particularly after disappointing performances on the pitch.
The 22-year-old forward, who spent the latter half of last season on loan at Celtic, described the immediate and intense backlash from fans on social media as a form of "torture," highlighting the dark side of modern football fandom.
The Brutal Reality of Fan Backlash
Idah spoke candidly about the extreme reactions from supporters, noting how quickly adoration can turn to vitriol. "When you have a bad game, the amount of hate you get is incredible," he revealed. "It's tough. One week they love you, the next week they absolutely hate you."
The young striker emphasised the psychological impact of this rollercoaster relationship with fans, explaining that players are acutely aware of the criticism that floods their social media feeds after a poor result or performance.
Social Media: A Double-Edged Sword
While platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) allow players to connect directly with their supporters, Idah's comments underscore their damaging potential. The instant access fans have to players has created an environment where criticism is immediate, personal, and often brutally harsh.
Idah's experience at Celtic, where passion runs exceptionally high, provided a stark example of how intense fan expectations can become. His time in Glasgow offered him a firsthand perspective on the unique pressures faced by players at Britain's biggest clubs.
A Growing Concern in Football
The Irish international's revelations add to an increasing conversation about mental health and player welfare in professional sports. As social media becomes increasingly embedded in football culture, more players are speaking out about the psychological toll of constant online scrutiny and abuse.
Idah's openness provides a rare glimpse into the human side of professional athletes, reminding fans that behind the jersey is a person susceptible to the same emotional challenges as anyone else.
