Franck Kessie reveals advice Zlatan gave him for Barcelona move

The Ivory Coast international shared what his former AC Milan teammate told him at his official unveiling as a Barcelona player.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic advised Franck Kessie to work hard and do what he did at AC Milan ahead of his move to Barcelona.

On Wednesday, Barca formally presented their new summer signing to the media. Kessie had a medical, signed his four-year contract, spoke to the media, and posed for photographs in his new kit.

The former AC Milan midfielder later took part in a press conference, alongside president Joan Laporta and director of football Mateu Alemany, to discuss his free transfer to the reporters.

🗣 Kessie: ❝I spoke to @Ibra_official and he gave me some advice. He told me to work hard, give my absolute best and go as far as possible at this club❞ pic.twitter.com/dYdAwpRA3E

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) July 6, 2022

Kessie reveals Ibra’s advice

One of the topics mentioned was what Ibrahimovic had to say. The Swede played at Camp Nou for one season in 2009/10. He recently partnered with Kessie to help AC Milan win a first league title in 11 years during the previous campaign.

“I’ve spoken with Ibrahimovic, he gave me some advice,” the Ivorian revealed.

“He told me that Barcelona is a beautiful city and a great team. He said: ‘work hard, do exactly what you’re doing at AC Milan, give everything, and try to go as far as possible at this club.’”

Kessie added: “I’m at the coach’s disposal. I will try to work on any playing position the coach wants. I’ll collaborate with him on his idea for our style.”

In 223 appearances, Kessie managed 37 goals and 16 assists in all competitions for AC Milan. The midfielder was an integral part of the Italian club’s success in Serie A last season.

He is one of two signings Barcelona have made so far this summer. The other one is Danish defender Andreas Christensen, who the club will unveil on Thursday.