During half-time of the 16th final of the Coupe de France between Paris Saint-Germain and Paris FC, Mamadou Sakho spoke in the mixed zone about the announcement of his retirement, sharing with emotion his pride and his memories. “It’s a beautiful page, a beautiful book”he declared, recalling his journey with emotion and gratitude. “I’m very proud of it, where I come from. I have truly had an exceptional career. I come away proud to have been able to motivate the younger generation, represent the capital and its suburbs, and inspire many young people. When I started, Paris Saint-Germain gave young people few chances, and for me, it was a goal to show that we could achieve it. » Sakho also highlighted the special link with Paris FC: “Announcing today during this match is special, because without Paris FC, I would not have been discovered by PSG. Between the ages of eight and twelve, it was this club that gave me this chance, and I then continued my journey proudly. Today, it’s a book that closes and I regret nothing. »
Looking back on his most memorable memories, Sakho spoke with emotion of his first time at the Parc des Princes: “My greatest memory was when I walked on the PSG pitch and looked up to see my mother in the stands. There was also a little regret of not being able to share this moment with my father, but it was a mixture of emotions. » The former defender also recalled the importance of his attachment to Paris: “I think we often say Paris, and there’s Sakho that goes with it. I wore this jersey from the training center, in Saint-Denis, in the 19th arrondissement, and we wore it loud and clear, first in the Paris region, then throughout France and around the world. »
