Former FC Barcelona midfielder Franck Kessie, at present taking part in for Al-Ahli in Jeddah, not too long ago sat down with Mundo Deportivo for an in-depth dialog about his tenure on the Catalan membership, his new life in Saudi Arabia, and his hopes for the way forward for Barcelona.
Kessie, affectionately nicknamed “Il Presidente” by Barça followers, left the membership in 2023 after only one season, having arrived as a free agent in 2022.
Reflections on Barcelona
Regardless of his transient keep, Kessie harbours no unwell emotions and speaks with delight about his time at Camp Nou, emphasising his pleasure at being a part of one of many world’s biggest golf equipment. Discussing his time at Barcelona, the Ivorian acknowledged:
“For me, it was an honour to be a Barcelona participant as a result of everyone knows the membership’s historical past. It’s a nice staff with a excessive degree. I received two titles there, and for me, that was unbelievable.
“I all the time needed to play there, and because of God, I had the chance to be a part of that nice squad.”
When requested if he regretted not fulfilling his five-year contract, he acknowledged: “Sure, I signed for 5 years and would have preferred to finish the contract, however soccer is like that. I joined Barcelona to win, and I received a league title.
“I felt nice there with the employees, the gamers, and the followers. My purpose was to reach and succeed. Though I might have preferred to remain longer, the chance right here in Saudi Arabia made me really feel vital, and I selected to return.”
Relationship with Xavi and the squad
Kessie additionally mirrored positively on his relationship with former Barcelona supervisor coach Xavi Hernndez, regardless of restricted taking part in alternatives.
“He referred to as me to hitch Barcelona, and it was an honour. He is among the greats in soccer, with many titles to his identify. That made me very completely happy. In soccer, although, issues don’t all the time go as anticipated,” stated the midfielder.
Franck Kessie seems to be again on his time at Barcelona fondly. (Photograph by Alex Caparros/Getty Photos)
“I got here to play, and I didn’t get all of the minutes I hoped for, however I left with a transparent conscience, realizing I gave my greatest. I’m grateful to Xavi, President Laporta, and everybody on the membership for permitting me to fulfil a dream.”
Kessie additionally spoke warmly about his former teammates and employees, describing the Barcelona dressing room as a household, as he stated:
“For me, that dressing room was a household, and it nonetheless is. Greeting my former teammates not too long ago gave me a constructive feeling, like I had completed one thing vital.
“Above soccer, the human connection issues most to me. Seeing my former teammates and the employees once more introduced me nice pleasure.”
On the rise of Lamine Yamal and La Masia
Kessie additionally commented on the promising way forward for Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s teenage sensation.
“Lamine is on the correct path and should proceed working to grow to be a prime participant. I’m very happy with him. After I was there, he was already coaching with us and displaying spectacular high quality,” stated the ex-AC Milan man.
Praising the present crop of La Masia stars, he added: “If he and others like Fermin, Cubarsi, Pablo Torre, and Casado proceed giving their all, Barcelona may have a fantastic staff, like within the days of Xavi, Iniesta, Ronaldinho, Messi, and Neymar.”
Requested a few Saudi Professional League participant who might match at Barcelona, Kessie recommended Gabri Veiga, saying:
“He has the standard to play there. He is an effective participant, younger, and proficient. If he works onerous right here, I imagine he can return to Europe and succeed at Barcelona.”
A Message to Barcelona Followers
Lastly, Kessie shared a heartfelt farewell to Barcelona supporters:
“I’m very proud to have been a part of the historical past of such a fantastic membership. I take into account myself not solely a former participant but in addition a fan. I encourage everybody to proceed supporting the staff, giving it power to beat challenges.
“Barcelona has a fantastic fanbase, and I’ve little question they’ll proceed to thrive. Visca el Barça!”
The post Kessie talks Xavi, Laporta, Lamine, Barcelona stint – ‘For me, it was an honour’ first appeared on Foot & Soccer.
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Author : footsoccer
Publish date : 2025-01-15 09:31:09
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