Franck Kessie unveiled as Barcelona player for 4 years

Barcelona, Jul 6 (EFE).- Franck Kessie on Wednesday was unveiled as a new Barcelona player after signing a four-year contract that includes a 500-million-euro buyout clause.

The Ivorian midfielder said he would like to follow in the footsteps of his countryman Yaya Toure, who helped Barca hoist seven titles including a Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup between 2007 and 2010.

“My dream is to make a career like Yaya Touré’s,” the 25-year-old, who joined the club as a free agent after his Milan contract had expired, said during his unveiling which was held at the Joan Gamper Sports City.

“I want to show what I am capable of and get to know my teammates and the coaching staff. I’m really looking forward to starting training,” he added.

Asked about his preferred position, Kessie said “My position on the pitch will be decided by the coach (Xavi Hernandez).”

During the press conference, Barcelona’s president Joan Laporta showered Kessie with praise.

“He is a player who has always wanted to come to Barça and we want players whose goal is to come here, who are excited about it,” he said.

“He is a midfielder who knows how to protect the defense and a midfielder that we were missing,” he added. EFE

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