Belgian winger Johan Bakayoko has set tongues wagging by choosing a move to Bundesliga side RB Leipzig, spurning the interest of several Premier League clubs. The gifted 20-year-old departed PSV Eindhoven for the German club, which has earned a reputation for developing young players and offering them a platform to become world-class.
RB Leipzig's whirlwind emergence in European football as well as its youth development focus were said to have had a major influence on Bakayoko's choice. The club just sold highly touted forward Benjamin Sesko to Manchester United for more than €80 million but did not delay in adding the Belgian talent as a central figure in their plans for the future.
Bakayoko underscored that Leipzig's atmosphere, where players have freedom to let themselves go on the field without too much pressure, was important in his decision. "I just want to feel like someone wants me to help this club, and that's it," he explained in a media session with NDTV.
The winger spoke to Belgian teammates Lois Openda and Arthur Vermeeren, who also feature at Leipzig. Bakayoko conceded that although they were not behind the move, having them there made it easier. "It's always lovely to have friends there…to assist you in your growth and also view their growth since they joined," he said.
Interestingly, Bakayoko also chatted with ex-Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who today is the Global Head of Soccer at Red Bull. Bakayoko confirmed that Klopp did not put any pressure on him to move to Leipzig; however, they talked about footballing philosophy, vision, and personal development. "He gives you freedom to be yourself, and that's all I need," Bakayoko added.
Bakayoko's transfer is a testament to an emerging trend among young players seeking development and self-sufficiency over flashy league titles. In opting for Leipzig, he has selected a platform where he can hone his craft, play a significant role, and develop without pressures from the outside that most Premier League transfers tend to bring.
With the Bundesliga season now live, everyone will be waiting with bated breath to see Bakayoko deliver on his first season in the new chapter of his life and help bridge the gap between the quality of Belgian players at RB Leipzig.
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