Despite being unable to reach an agreement with English club Norwich, Ismaël Koné is delighted to have been spotted by a European formation. He will continue his education at CF Montreal, which is undoubtedly the best decision at this stage in his career.
• Also read: Kamal Miller was eagerly awaited
• Also read: CF Montreal: Koné will not go to Norwich City
We’ve already forgotten, but the Quebec midfielder made his professional debut this year. He seemed so out of place in Major League Soccer (MLS) that expectations of him grew.
The 20-year-old believes he’s getting better every day. He doesn’t care about rumors or even this failed transfer from the second division club. Norwich played in the Premier League last season.
“You made a concrete offer. They came to see me [à Washington], they were interested. After that we didn’t agree on the “business”, let’s say, Koné revealed at a press conference on Thursday. I’ll always be grateful to Norwich because it’s really my only offer from a European club. It’s a big thing for me, even if it’s just an offer.”
“Norwich has been a target since they knocked on the door but I’m good in Montreal at the moment,” he said.
to build experience
Another season in MLS and regular international invites could help confirm he has the caliber to play in Europe. He has just 19 pro games shy of the tie.
Koné is at home in Quebec, in a familiar environment. He knows the staff and the structure of the club and he is the protégé of several veterans of the club whom he does not hesitate to ask for advice.
“These are things that a footballer has to deal with because you’re not always going to stay at home where it’s comfortable,” he said. It helps your development a lot. Going home after practice, seeing your friends, feels really good. Those are things that help you live it better.”
“I was lucky to arrive in a dressing room where everyone saw my mistakes and could help me in their own way. It’s really helped me grow as a player this year,” he said gratefully.
The Ivory Coast native has one goal and three assists in MLS this season. He was not sent on the field by coach Wilfried Nancy against Inter Miami CF last week.