Ernest Nuamah wanted to “stay at OL to progress”

Ernest Nuamah with young OL supporters (credit: Anthony Ravas / O&L)

This summer, Ernest Nuamah was pushed out, particularly at the end of the transfer window. The Ghanaian explains why he wanted to stay at OL.

With RB, in Décines.

On the last days of August, the Ernest case Nuamah has turned into a real soap opera with multiple twists and turns. Quoted about leaving for England, the winger finally failed when signing for Fulham on the last day of the transfer window.

A case mentioned by John Weaver in September when taking stock of the Lyon summer period. But the main person concerned never spoke publicly following this episode. Friday, in front of the press, the attacker took the time to return to this last minute change of heart.

He followed his plan

“My plan was to continue at Lyon, to develop as a footballer. I want to play in Europe to progress. It’s a great environment to grow. I like everything here, the style of play, the stadium… that’s why I wanted to stay, he elaborated. I was touched by the messages from the supporters, it was very kind of them. What will make them happy is that I achieve on the pitch what I want to do by being decisive with goals or assists.”

Quite shy, responding in short sentences, Nuamah now intends to make his place at OL, and thus realize his personal ambitions. “I always had players I wanted to emulate. What is essential is that football is something very exciting, a game. For me, to have arrived from Ghana and to be here today is the greatest achievement I could aspire to, he acknowledged. I wanted to be here, to play at a high level. Now I’m ready for this. There will be more and more opportunities, but I’m moving forward little by little.”