Haut-Savoyard football cry one of its greatest symbols. Jean-Jacques Ikonga, an emblematic figure of FC Annecy, died at the age of 91, the club announced on Friday. Born in Brazzaville, in the Republic of Congo, he will have long marked the history of the FCA, where he spent most of his career, in particular by offering the club the title of French amateur champion in 1960 thanks to a decisive goal in overtime against FC Nancy.
Before shining in Annecy, Jean-Jacques Ikonga had the opportunity to evolve in the elite of French football. The Congolese winger borne the colors of Olympique de Marseille between 1958 and 1959. He played six games there and scored two goals in the Marseille jersey, before returning definitively to Haute-Savoie to write most of his legend.
A passionate educator
After hanging up the crampons at FC Annecy, Ikonga did not move away from the club. Passionate and deeply attached to training, he then turned to the supervision of young people. “OM former, he marked the history of the FCA by his talent, his commitment and his humanity, before transmitting his passion to the young people of the club for more than 15 years”praised FC Annecy in a press release.
More than a player, Ikonga had become a tutelary figure of the red and white club. Its longevity, its involvement and his benevolence have deeply marked several generations of supporters and future footballers. “Real red and white legend, he will remain forever in our hearts”concludes the Haut-Savoyard club in its tribute.
The heritage of Jean-Jacques Ikonga goes beyond simple statistics. His journey, between OM and FC Annecy, will remain that of a respected pioneer, which will have binded performance and transmission, until it becomes a local icon of the round ball.
