Cédric Kipré, the Franco-Ivorian defender, is on the verge of signing with Ligue 1 club Stade de Reims as he reaches the end of his contract with West Bromwich Albion. Reports from various French media outlets indicate that the 27-year-old is set to ink a three-year deal with the team that finished ninth in the last championship.
Trained at Paris Saint-Germain, Kipré’s professional journey has primarily unfolded in the UK.
He moved to Leicester City at the age of 18 and has since played for several clubs, including Motherwell, Wigan Athletic, Cardiff City, and West Bromwich Albion.
With 174 Championship appearances to his name, Kipré is poised to experience French top-flight football for the first time in his career.
Kipré’s career trajectory took off in the youth ranks of Paris Saint-Germain. However, seeking greater opportunities, he moved to Leicester City, where he hoped to break into the first team. D
espite not making a senior appearance for Leicester, Kipré gained valuable experience and moved to Motherwell in the Scottish Premiership in 2017.
His impressive performances there earned him a move to Wigan Athletic a year later.
At Wigan, Kipré’s robust defending and aerial prowess made him a key player, and he quickly adapted to the rigors of the English Championship.
His consistency caught the eye of West Bromwich Albion, where he transferred in 2020.
However, Kipré’s time at West Brom was a mix of challenges and learning, with loan spells at Cardiff City providing him with more game time and further development.
Kipré’s impending move to Stade de Reims represents a significant step in his career.
Known for his strong defensive skills, physicality, and leadership at the back, he is expected to bolster Reims’ defense.
His experience in the demanding environments of British football will be invaluable as he transitions to Ligue 1.
For Stade de Reims, Kipré’s signing is a strategic move to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.
The club’s management is likely looking to build on their solid performance in the last campaign and aim higher in the standings.
Kipré’s versatility and experience could play a crucial role in achieving these ambitions.
For Cédric Kipré, returning to France marks a full circle in his football journey.
While his early years were spent honing his skills in the PSG academy, his professional development occurred across the English Channel.
Now, with a wealth of experience and a robust skill set, Kipré is ready to make his mark in Ligue 1.
As he prepares to join Stade de Reims, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Kipré adapts to French football.
His signing is seen as a promising addition to the Reims squad, and there is optimism that he will quickly become a key player for the team.
Cédric Kipré’s transfer to Stade de Reims is a significant move for both the player and the club. With his extensive experience in British football and his defensive capabilities, Kipré is well-equipped to succeed in Ligue 1.
This new chapter in his career holds great promise, and his arrival at Reims is eagerly anticipated by supporters and club officials alike.