Christian Kouamé, Empoli’s latest signing on loan from Fiorentina, was introduced to the press today. The Ivorian forward shared his thoughts on joining the club and his aspirations for the season ahead.
When asked about his decision to accept Empoli’s offer, Kouamé emphasized the importance of his conversation with the manager: “The first thing is that I spoke with the coach. He explained his project to me and how he saw me fitting in. I need to play with more consistency. We have a common goal, which is to stay in Serie A.”
Regarding what he can bring to Empoli and the challenges ahead, Kouamé stressed humility and teamwork: “I come here with great humility, I shouldn’t think I’m better than others. I try to help my teammates and be involved. The next match won’t be easy, Milan is a great team, but we remain grounded. We must try to do what the guys have always done so far, with the right attitude.”
On his preferred position, Kouamé expressed his fondness for a fluid attacking system: “When I played with two up front, it’s the role I liked. I like the coach’s way of playing because the attackers rotate, I like to move and not give reference points.”
Kouamé shared his positive first impressions of Empoli: “I’m happy to be here, I’ve found an excellent group. On the first day they played a prank on me, I like this because there’s a good group. If the group is strong, we can win against anyone.”
When asked about his departure from Fiorentina, Kouamé explained: “At the beginning of the transfer window, many called me. I like to compete, I liked the choice of Empoli because I stay close to home. Moving would have been difficult. Empoli had often sought me in the past, then talking with the coach I didn’t hesitate to come here. Florence is my home, I’ve always felt good there, it’s a club that gave me confidence, that allowed me to play in Europe, to go to the national team and win the Africa Cup of Nations.”
Kouamé expressed his eagerness to prove himself: “I have a lot of desire, and I’ve always put it on the field. I want to demonstrate my value and I have a great desire to play for this team and my teammates.”
On the possibility of playing alongside Colombo and Esposito, Kouamé was open: “Yes, we can, the coach hasn’t told me anything but it’s up to me to understand how to play with Colombo and Esposito. I need to hurry to make myself understood.”
