Alexandre Coppolani: Football’s French-African connection
Alexandre Coppolani, assistant physical trainer for Mali’s national team and Renaissance Sportive Berkane (RSB), shares insights into his deep-rooted connection with Africa and his commitment to football on the continent.
Born in Romania in 1993, Coppolani embarked on a professional journey that led him to become a seasoned physical trainer with a passion for football.
Having honed his skills in the professional arena for over a decade, Coppolani found himself drawn to Africa, where he has spent more than six years working in the football industry.
Coppolani’s journey began with an internship at AC Ajaccio, followed by specialized training under the tutelage of renowned physical trainer Antonio Pintus.
His expertise eventually led him to Morocco, where he currently serves as part of the performance unit at Renaissance Sportive Berkane, a prominent club in the Moroccan football landscape.
Beyond his club duties, Coppolani’s dedication to African football extends to his role with Mali’s national team, where he collaborates closely with head coach Éric Sékou Chelle.
Despite not having a formal contract with Mali, Coppolani’s commitment to the team’s success is unwavering, driven by his deep respect for the coaching staff and players.
Reflecting on his profound connection to Africa, Coppolani emphasizes the continent’s pivotal role in global football.
He credits African players with shaping the sport’s landscape and identifies with their determination and resilience both on and off the field
. Coppolani’s personal ties to Africa, including his Nigerian partner, further underscore his affinity for the continent.
For Coppolani, working with Mali is more than just a professional endeavor; it’s a shared mission to achieve success on the international stage.
With ambitions to win the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and inspire hope among Malians, Coppolani is fully committed to realizing the team’s long-term goals under Coach Chelle’s leadership.
Despite setbacks, such as Mali’s recent quarter-final elimination in the AFCON , Coppolani remains undeterred in his pursuit of excellence.
He acknowledges the disappointment but reaffirms his dedication to the team’s journey and expresses gratitude to Mali’s supporters and leadership for their unwavering backing.
In conclusion, Alexandre Coppolani’s story epitomizes the rich and intertwined relationship between France and Africa within the realm of football.
His journey serves as a testament to the power of sport in bridging cultures, fostering unity, and driving positive change on and off the pitch.
