Manu Koné on growing up in Paris: ‘’The suburbs are the foundation’’

Manu Koné grew up in the Parisian suburb of Colombes. It is where he pathed his way to professional football. ‘’I have only good memories from and I’m even happy to come from the suburbs, I have no regrets.’’ 

When Koné turned 15 years old, he moved to the south of France to play for Toulouse. ‘’The only change was more about moving to a new city, also leaving ‘’home’’ at the age of 11 to go to Clairefontaine for two years. I was feeling ready for Toulouse, and my parents knew very well that when it comes to football – I’m in my zone.’’ 

Looking good

The midfielder, who currently plays in the Bundesliga for Borussia Mönchengladbach, doesn’t just catch the attention for his displays on the pitch but also for his fashion sense. ‘’I’ve always liked to look good. I was shy when I was little, but now it’s been a while since I’ve started taking an interest in fashion.’’ When asked who dressed the best in France’s U21 Olympic team, Koné knows his answer. ‘’I’d say myself, otherwise Khephren [Thuram] or Castello [Lukeba].’’

Koné also tells NSS Sports about the current artists in his playlist. ‘’I’ll probably listen to Kaaris, Ninho, Tiakola, L2b gang, and especially La Team Paiya.’’