Kessie talks Xavi, Laporta, Lamine, Barcelona stint – ‘For me, it was an honour’ | OneFootball

Former FC Barcelona midfielder Franck Kessie, currently playing for Al-Ahli in Jeddah, recently sat down with Mundo Deportivo for an in-depth conversation about his tenure at the Catalan club, his new life in Saudi Arabia, and his hopes for the future of Barcelona.

Kessie, affectionately nicknamed “Il Presidente” by Barça fans, left the club in 2023 after just one season, having arrived as a free agent in 2022.

Reflections on Barcelona

Despite his brief stay, Kessie harbours no ill feelings and speaks with pride about his time at Camp Nou, emphasising his joy at being part of one of the world’s greatest clubs. Discussing his time at Barcelona, the Ivorian stated:

“For me, it was an honour to be a Barcelona player because we all know the club’s history. It is a great team with a high level. I won two titles there, and for me, that was fantastic.

“I always wanted to play there, and thanks to God, I had the opportunity to be part of that great squad.”

When asked if he regretted not fulfilling his five-year contract, he acknowledged: “Yes, I signed for five years and would have liked to complete the contract, but football is like that. I joined Barcelona to win, and I won a league title.

“I felt great there with the staff, the players, and the fans. My goal was to arrive and succeed. Although I would have liked to stay longer, the opportunity here in Saudi Arabia made me feel important, and I chose to come.”

Relationship with Xavi and the squad

Kessie also reflected positively on his relationship with former Barcelona manager coach Xavi Hernndez, despite limited playing opportunities.

“He called me to join Barcelona, and it was an honour. He is one of the greats in football, with many titles to his name. That made me very happy. In football, though, things do not always go as expected,” said the midfielder.

Franck Kessie looks back on his time at Barcelona fondly. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“I came to play, and I did not get all the minutes I hoped for, but I left with a clear conscience, knowing I gave my best. I am grateful to Xavi, President Laporta, and everyone at the club for allowing me to fulfil a dream.”

Kessie also spoke warmly about his former teammates and staff, describing the Barcelona dressing room as a family, as he said:

“For me, that dressing room was a family, and it still is. Greeting my former teammates recently gave me a positive feeling, like I had accomplished something significant.

“Above football, the human connection matters most to me. Seeing my former teammates and the staff again brought me great joy.”

On the rise of Lamine Yamal and La Masia

Kessie also commented on the promising future of Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s teenage sensation.

“Lamine is on the right path and must continue working to become a top player. I am very proud of him. When I was there, he was already training with us and showing spectacular quality,” said the ex-AC Milan man.

Praising the current crop of La Masia stars, he added: “If he and others like Fermin, Cubarsi, Pablo Torre, and Casado continue giving their all, Barcelona will have a great team, like in the days of Xavi, Iniesta, Ronaldinho, Messi, and Neymar.”

Asked about a Saudi Pro League player who could fit at Barcelona, Kessie suggested Gabri Veiga, saying:

“He has the quality to play there. He is a good player, young, and talented. If he works hard here, I believe he can return to Europe and succeed at Barcelona.”

A Message to Barcelona Fans

Finally, Kessie shared a heartfelt farewell to Barcelona supporters:

“I am very proud to have been part of the history of such a great club. I consider myself not only a former player but also a fan. I encourage everyone to continue supporting the team, giving it strength to overcome challenges.

“Barcelona has a great fanbase, and I have no doubt they will continue to thrive. Visca el Barça!”