Samuel Umtiti’s ordeal at FC Barcelona has come to an end. After several years of hardship marked by physical glitches, where he had been completely dismissed by Xavi within the Catalan collective (50 games in 4 seasons since the end of the 2018 World Cup), the French international was targeted by many European clubs, including Rennes. But he finally joined Serie A, in Lecce, without a purchase option until June 30, 2023. At the microphone of the Italian press, the ex-Lyonnais returned to his career choice.
First, Umtiti notably explained why he had chosen to join Lecce, who had just been promoted to Serie A. “I spoke to the management of Lecce and realized that it was the club that suited me best. They found the right words and I understood that we shared the same values. I think it’s very important, because I was looking for tranquility, humble people to work in complete serenity»he explained at the microphone of Sky Sports.
“I want to rediscover the pleasure of playing football”
“I really like Italy, I come often, I like the mentality. I didn’t know Lecce, but my Italian friends spoke well of the city to me. They told me: you will see that the supporters will welcome you warmly. And then the food is very good in the city of Lecce»recalled the 28-year-old central defender, welcomed in Italy by a real crowd at the airport.
Finally, the ex-Lyonnais returned to the rest of his career and hopes in particular to find playing time under the colors of his new club. “I have good feelings. I am coming out of long, very complicated years and I want to rediscover the pleasure of playing football. I want to play, to talk football live from the field. This is the most important thing for me. I hope to have a good season with Lecce.”he added.