Vincent Koziello leaves OGC Nice. On Tuesday, an agreement was reached between all parties for his transfer to Cologne, in the Bundesliga. Before signing his contract, the midfielder who came through the club’s academy picked up the phone from Germany to explain his choice. Proud of his career in red and black (84 games in L1, 12 in Europe) and driven by the need to continue his progression.  

Vincent Koziello: “The time for me to leave the nest” 

Vincent, do you get the feeling that the “time had come”? 

Yes. My game time at Nice began to slow down, and I need to play. It was time for me to leave the nest. I needed to move on to be able to progress. And even though I continued to progress here, because  Coach Favre and his assistants know football very well, game time was beginning to escape me. At the end, when I was coming on, I couldn’t be myself. There are also lots of players here that play in my position, the coach told me that. It’s lots of different things which have lead me to this decision.

Why have you chosen to move to Germany? 

I am leaving to play. I think I can do that in this country. The Bundesliga is a league that you dream of and I like a lot, with lots of big clubs, big players. To be in and around that, is always good for progress. Cologne wanted to buy me, welcomed me very well. The confidence also played a part. Even though the club is struggling (currently in 18th place, Editor’s note), I will give my all to help them bounce back. 

How would you sum up your story with the Gym?

There were only good moments, only happiness. Of course it touches me to leave this club that gave me everything, who allowed me to become a pro. I keep only good memories with everyone, the players, the coaching staff, the club staff, the supporters...  

To leave the club that I love, it’s difficult: I am doing so with a heavy heart but with no bitterness. It wasn’t forced upon me, the owners have been good with me throughout. I know why I am leaving, and I am leaving with a big smile, knowing that it’s right for me. I am nearly 22 years old, I need to be playing as a man. I am from the area, I have always been here, it will be bizarre to change that, but I want to progress in all areas. And I know that the Gym are in good hands.

A final word for the supporters.

Thank you for all of these great moments! They are always behind me and behind the whole team, and they have played a huge role in my evolution. I also keep lots of good memories with them, and I will always be attached to them and the club.

Bonne route Vincent #UnoDiNoi
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— OGC Nice (@ogcnice) 16 janvier 2018

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