Manu Koné has reaffirmed his commitment to Roma after addressing the transfer speculation that surrounded him during the summer window.
Speaking at a press conference before France’s Nations League match against Italy on Friday, October 2, the midfielder also discussed his development in Serie A, his relationship with Zinedine Zidane and his new role with the French national team.
Koné Addresses His Roma Future
Koné was linked with a possible departure from Roma during the final days of the summer transfer window, with Chelsea among the clubs reportedly interested in signing him.
Asked how he experienced that period, the 25-year-old made it clear that his attention is now entirely on Roma.
“Things happened, but I am at Roma and I am focused,” Koné said. “What happened is in the past. I give 100% for this club and I will give everything to meet expectations. That is all.”
Koné has since strengthened his importance to Gian Piero Gasperini’s team, producing several impressive performances and scoring twice in Roma’s recent 2-2 draw against Inter.
Koné Grateful to Roma for Reviving His Career
The midfielder also explained how moving to Italy helped him develop tactically and regain confidence following a difficult period with Borussia Mönchengladbach.
“When I arrived in Italy, I was younger. I was 23, and the experience brought greater maturity to my game,” he explained. “I became more focused. Tactically, I did not possess the abilities that I have now.
“I also improved the way I manage my energy, and that helped make me the player I am today. I was going through a difficult period at Borussia Mönchengladbach and Roma came for me. I am very grateful to them.”
Mancini and Cristante Prepare Koné for Italy Match
Koné will now face several familiar opponents when France host Italy at the Stade de France. He revealed that Roma teammates Gianluca Mancini and Bryan Cristante had already spoken to him about the importance of the encounter.
“I already know that it is an important match for Italy because, in their eyes, we are a very strong national team with excellent players,” Koné said.
“Mancini and Cristante keep telling me in training that it will be an important game. Italy are rebuilding and going through a difficult period, but we will concentrate on ourselves.
“We know that we are France. We have incredible players and we are determined to win the coach’s first match at the Stade de France.”
Koné Embraces New Role Under Zidane
Koné impressed while operating as France’s deepest midfielder during the victory over Turkey. It was another encouraging performance after Zidane tested the Roma midfielder in a different role.
“I tried to meet the coach’s demands,” Koné explained. “For me, a midfielder must be able to play everywhere. I have already played in that position several times with my previous clubs and also at Roma.
“It does not change much for me and I enjoyed it. It was a complicated match with different demands, particularly in terms of duels. I tried to rise to the occasion.
“I approach my matches according to what the team needs. I was asked to contribute to a certain style of play, so I tried to give my best. I am very proud of myself.”
Koné believes his versatility allows him to perform in different midfield structures.
“It is a different system,” he continued. “At the World Cup we played with two defensive midfielders, while here there is one deeper playmaker.
“A midfielder must be capable of adapting to different positions, and I think I have that versatility. Wherever I play, I will enjoy myself and try to meet the demands of the coach and the team.”
Koné Praises Zidane’s Management
The Roma midfielder described working under Zidane as a privilege and praised the France coach’s direct approach with his players.
“It is a pleasure to be coached by Zinedine Zidane, a global legend,” Koné said. “He manages us in a very human and sincere way. He is close to the players and speaks to us privately or in front of the group.
“He is very intuitive and gives us the confidence to play freely. It is fantastic because we are playing our natural football.
“On a personal level, he was honest. He spoke to each of us individually and told me to play the way I normally do.”
Koné has also been impressed by Zidane’s technical ability in training.
“What surprised me was his technique. He has not lost anything, and seeing him in person is even better. Watching him now makes me think he must have been incredible during his playing days.
“I listen to everything he tells me because I can only learn from him. He gives me advice about positioning and the balance of the team. He gives me responsibilities, and I must fulfil them.”
Koné Discusses Competition With Lucas Da Cunha
Koné also spoke warmly about Como midfielder Lucas Da Cunha, who started in his position against Belgium.
“I knew Lucas from the French youth teams and we have many memories together that we still laugh about,” he said.
“I had the pleasure of playing against him in Serie A, where his team, Como, are very strong. It is good to see him at this level and playing in midfield when he used to be ‘my winger.’
“It is healthy competition. The most important thing is to think about the team and continue moving forward to win matches.”
Roma reportedly explored a move for the midfielder before he elected to stay with Como, with the Giallorossi among several clubs interested in Da Cunha.
Koné will now hope to continue his strong start to the season when France face Italy, before returning to Trigoria for Roma’s resumption of Serie A action.
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