Goalkeeper Brice Samba says he has “no regrets” about leaving Nottingham Forest 12 months ago.
The Frenchman remains a popular figure Trentside. A big character on and off the pitch during his spell at the City Ground, he was integral to the Reds ending their 23-year absence from the Premier League.
Samba left Forest only a matter of weeks after promotion had been secured, departing for Lens in July 2022. At the time, he had a year left to run on his contract and turned down the offer of a new one.I t brought an end to his three-year stay with the Reds. And he admits his decision raised a few eyebrows.
When asked if people understood his choice, he responded, “Not really, no,” according to Sport Witness and French publication So Foot. I received a little tongue-lashing (laughter).
It was like, “What do you mean you’d rather go to Ligue 1? Because in England, you can’t touch the Premier League. They couldn’t fathom it, but I’m not like them.
“Only 2% of players out of 100 would have acted the way I did. I had all I required for my stay. I was succeeding and receiving admiration because I had won the promotion. I don’t regret anything because everything Lens predicted for me came to pass. Additionally, the club is where I am now recognized in my own nation.”
Samba, who earlier this year got his France debut, assisted Lens in finishing second in Ligue 1 last season. He is one among the contenders for this year’s Yachin Trophy, which is granted to the world’s top goalkeeper.
When word of his nomination spread among Reds supporters, he received a lot of support. And when the account Forest Watch complimented him, the 29-year-old made it obvious he still had feelings for his previous team by writing “thanks guys” and using a heart emoji.
Leave a Comment