Salifu Suma: My days at "Zira" were rich, I gave it my all

An interview with Salifu Suma to Offsideplus.az, who transferred from "Zira" to the Swedish club "Malmö" for 1.3 million euros.

- Hello, Salifu. How are you? Where are you?

- I'm fine, thank you very much. I am in Sweden now.

- How is your physical condition?

- I feel great physically.

- You played in France for a while and then moved to "Zira". Did you achieve what you wanted at this club?

- Absolutely. My days at "Zira" were rich. I found a good team, a good head coach, and a competitive league. I have many good memories here.

- How would you rate your 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons with "Zira"?

- It was 2 seasons where I learned a lot both on and off the field. I gave everything for this club and I am very happy with what we achieved together.

- So, "Malmö". How did the transfer process begin?

- It was a very intense and positive period. The discussions were serious and based on mutual respect. I felt that "Malmö" really wanted me. I believed in their sports project. Everything between the clubs happened with respect.

- What was the main factor in choosing "Malmö"?

- This club is ambitious, has real European history and has a very professional structure. I felt that by helping the club achieve its goals, I would also develop myself.

- Were there Azerbaijani and foreign clubs that sent you offers?

- Yes, there were some negotiations, but at this stage of my career I was looking for a new challenge in different leagues. Other European clubs also contacted me. I will not disclose their names to protect confidentiality. "Malmö" was the most obvious choice for me.

- What were your goals in Azerbaijan? Has anything changed since moving to "Malmö"?

- My goal was to help "Zira" develop, qualify for European cups and grow as a football player. My goals remain the same in "Malmö", my ambition has not changed: to develop, support the team and maintain performance at a high level.

- Rashad Sadigov said at a press conference that "Suma's most successful game was against "Qarabag"". Do you agree? What was the most memorable game for you in Azerbaijan?

- It is an honor to hear these words. The game against "Qarabag" was emotional. But every game has a special contribution. I also remember the games where my team exceeded expectations.

- It was a pleasure to watch you in the "Zira" team. Your dance after the goal was also different. Maybe you can talk a little more about that goal celebration?

- Thank you very much, I am really grateful. I celebrate the fun of football in this way. The dance comes from my country - Guinea. This is a national dance, I like to share my joy with the fans when I score a goal or win.

Idman.biz