THE PRESS CONFERENCE INTRODUCING CHEICK CONDE

This afternoon, Cheick Conde spoke at the press conferenze in VFC headquarter Ca’Venezia.

Cheick Conde:
"I chose to come here because it meant a lot to me, and it was a decision I shared with my family. Already last summer, there was an opportunity, but it didn’t materialize. Despite that, I always kept my trust and focus because my goal was to come to Venezia.

My first impression was that of being part of a family: here at Ca’ Venezia, but also at the stadium, there is an atmosphere of unity.
I saw that the fans, even in difficult moments, like after the defeat against Inter, never stopped showing their support, and this really struck and impressed me.

I started playing football at the age of 5, and I immediately fell in love with it. At 19, I arrived in Europe, first in France and then in the Czech Republic.
Adapting to new realities was not easy, but little by little and over time, as I learned the language, I settled in. After my arrival in Europe, I realized I would not return to Africa.

My first impression of Serie A was that it is a step forward compared to the Swiss league. The level of Italian football is very high, both tactically and physically.
My goal is to be ready because playing in Italy and in this league has always been one of my dreams.
Among the players I look up to are Makélélé, from a tactical point of view, and Paul Pogba, for his technical qualities.

The most important thing is to make myself available and adapt to the requests of coach Di Francesco, even though I prefer playing in front of the defense."