In the final days of the transfer window, the French forward chose to leave Stade Rennais for Middle-Eastern giants, http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Al-Ain-c38290, a move that has attracted a lot of criticism
Some supporters of Ligue 1 side, Stade Rennais have been infuriated by the choice of Jires Kembo-Ekoko. At the age of 24, the Frenchman decided to leave Breton to join UAE giants Al-Ain. The choice made by the player has been criticised from all quarters.
Rennais coach, Frederic Antonetti is also disappointed by the player’s choice and says that the youngster has not made a wise sporting decision.
“We lost a player. You lose a talent and talent does not run on streets. I think that at 24 years, it is not a wise sporting choice.” Frederic Antonetti could not hide his disappointment especially due to the fact that Ekoko was in for a possible contract
extension before packing his bags and leave.
Silent until then, the former http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/France-c2899 Under-21 international of Congolese origin has finally decided to come out of his silence. Questioned by the official website of Rennais, the Kinshasa native admitted that the financial aspect was enticing but added that
negotiations with Rennais were taking too long and so he had to make a quick decision.
“Yes, I can understand that (criticism). We cannot lie about the financial aspect as it is important. But in our careers, we have to make choices. There had been discussions with Stade Rennais. However, this (extension) did not happen. It is my choice.”
However, the player has not forgotten about his former teammates and people who made him such an important part of the Bretons.
Kembo-Ekoko says that he had a weird feeling upon leaving Route de la Lorient and thanked Dreossi , http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Jean-c18112 Marie de Zerbi and Antonetti for their support.
“Stade Rennais gave me a lot and I was very happy to wear this jersey. I would like to thanks many people at the club like Mr. Rampillon, Mr Dreossi and Laurent Huard who helped me a lot. I have not forgotten Jean Marie de Zerbi and Antonetti. This has never
been easy but I think he (Antonetti) is a coach who trusted me and I thank him.”
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