What were the reasons for you to leave Hannover 96 and to join Eintracht?
I want to help Eintracht getting promoted. The manager and the team are great, and sporting director Bruno Hübner also convinced me straight away.
You started nearly all games so far. Did you expect being a set starter right from the start?
I knew that if I would do all I can and show my quality I would play from the start.
Eintracht started well, being unbeaten so far. Are you happy with your own performance?
My game was not too bad so far but I am only on 80%. I will increase my power with every single appearance.
Who are the main competitors for Eintracht?
In my view definitely Greuther Fürth.
You played in your home town Abdijan, in Norway and in Romania before heading to Germany. What was the most important stopover for you?
Germany without a doubt, everything is very professional here. Although I am not here that long I feel very comfortable at Eintracht.
Manager Armin Veh called you a ‘tough cookie’ when you returned very soon after an injury. What do you make of that?
Yes, he is right there, I am a ‘tough cookie’. My attitude ist to fight for my goals, to never give up with what I want to achieve.
What do you do when you are not playing football?
I like cooking, mainly traditional African dishes.
What are your goals with the national team of the Ivory Coast?
Everyone in the team would like to win the African Cup of Nations at some stage.
Have you settled in already in Frankfurt, do you like the city?
Yes, I have settled in and I really like Frankfurt.
How did the team take you on board and with whom are you getting on well?
I get on well with all the players, we have a great squad here. In my spare time I often hang out with Karim Matmour and Habib Bellaid, they both speak French like me.
How do you like German food?
German food is tasty but I still prefer African dishes.
When did you start playing football and when did you sign your first contract?
I started at the age of five and my first contract was when I started playing for the national team at the age of 12. My first European contract was the one in Norway.
What would you like to do after your career as a footballer?
I would like to become an ambassador of UNICEF.
Are you watching other football matches on TV?
I hardly watch TV, therefor it is rare that I watch football.
You have a son – how old is he and di you teach him some footie skills already?
He is only two so it is a bit early! But once he is older I will show him on trick or another for sure.
Do you like other sports besides football?
I also like Tennis.
If you could get rid of a footballing rule, which one would it be?
I would abandon the rule that players are booked for taking off their jersey when celebrating a goal.
You came to Germany three years ago. Do you speak German?
I can communicate but of course I speak better French or English.
Do you have a favourite club?
Yes, my home club Stella Club Adjamé.