Manu Koné has put Roma first despite acknowledging that interest in him emerged during the market, while the midfielder also offered a warm account of life under France coach Zinedine Zidane.
The decision
The Roma midfielder made clear that his focus remains entirely on the Giallorossi. Koné said developments had taken place around his future, but insisted they belong to the past and do not alter his commitment in the capital.
“Things happened for me, but I am at Roma and fully focused,” he said. “What happened is behind me. I give 100 per cent for this club and I will give everything to meet expectations. That is all.”
It is a straightforward message at an important point of the season: Roma have a player determined to make his contribution where he is, rather than allowing market discussion to become part of the weekly conversation.
Sunday’s picture
Before returning to club duties, Koné will be involved with France for the upcoming Nations League meeting with Italy. The match is scheduled for Friday at the Stade de France, where Zidane’s presence is expected to bring a strong public reception.
Koné spoke with admiration about the former France great, saying he had been struck by the technical ability Zidane still possesses when seen at close range.
“His technique impressed me: he has lost nothing,” Koné said. “Watching him live and seeing that he still has that touch makes you imagine how extraordinary he must have been in his playing days.”
The Roma man said he was pleased to work under “a legend” and described Zidane as attentive to people and close to his squad. In Koné’s view, the France coach gives players confidence and asks them to express themselves freely.
He added that Zidane’s standing makes the expected applause at the Stade de France entirely natural. France and Italy will see that welcome first-hand on Friday, with Koné set to move from an international occasion shaped by his coach’s stature back to the demands of Roma’s season.
