Franck Kessié, now a player for Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia, looked back on his time at FC Barcelona in an interview given this Wednesday to Sports Worldo. The one who was recruited in 2022 from AC Milan, before leaving the Catalan club in the summer of 2023, gave his feelings on his experience in Catalonia and the reasons for his premature departure.
A short but memorable experience
The native of Ouaraghio, nicknamed “The President” by supporters of AC Milan, of which he was vice-captain, joined Barça with high ambitions. “ For me, playing for FC Barcelona was a huge honor. It is one of the biggest clubs in the world, with an extraordinary history “, he confided. In one season, the Ivorian will have garnished its prize list with a Liga and a Super CupSpainwith decent playing time (28 championship matches) although not always a starter. But he did not have time to mark the history ofCulésover time, having only played one exercise out of the five provided for in his contract.
« I would have liked to stay and complete my contract. But football is like that. What matters is that I gave my best when I had my chance. I left with a clear conscience.» he expressed, without apparent regret.
Xavi’s role and missed opportunities
Recruited at the insistence of Xavi, Kessié maintains a deep respect for his former coach, despite limited playing time.
« It was an honor that a football great like Xavi called me to join the Barça. Even though I didn’t play as much as I hoped, I have no complaints with it. He gave me the opportunity to make a dream come true. »
However, he regrets that initial expectations were not followed by facts.
« I had hoped for a bigger role, especially after the end of last season. But in football, nothing is ever guaranteed.» he admits.
A departure motivated by a “new challenge”
The departure to Al-Ahli surprised some Ivorians, who would have hoped to see the former Stella Adjamé continue to represent them in one of the best clubs in the world. Like many, Kessié gave in to the Saudi sirens. But insists that this is not a purely financial choice:
-« I came here because I was made to feel important in this new project. The Saudi league is growing, and I wanted to be part of this evolution. »
The 2024 African champion is now aiming for titles in this new adventure: “I am here to win, whether it is the League, the Cup or the Asian Champions League.» Currently 5th in the Saudi Pro League, the Jeddah club is still far from the mark. But remains on a good series of five victories in the championship, with a solid Kessié in midfield.
A special relationship with Barça
Despite his departure, Kessié retains a particular affection for Barça. He speaks of a locker room that “looked like family» and maintains a strong bond with his former teammates. During the Spanish Super Cup won in Jeddah by the Catalans after a thrilling match against the rival, the Real Madrid(5-2), he had the opportunity to greet his ex-partners, a moment that he describes as particularly moving.
Asked about the club’s young talents, he was enthusiastic: “Lamine YamalPablo Torre, Fermín… They have everything to become world-class players. If they continue to work hard, Barca can return to the greatness of the Messi, Xavi, Iniesta era.»
A message for the supporters
At the time of his departure, Kessié did not have the opportunity to say goodbye to the Camp Nou, but he wanted to send a message to the club’s fans: “I am proud to have worn this jersey. Continue to support the team, even in difficult times. Barça has a great history and an incredible fan base. Visca el Barça!»
All’s well that ends well!
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