Kevin Constant: Guinea Choice Was ‘Professional, Not Emotional’
AC Milan defender Kevin Constant has revealed that his decision to represent Guinea internationally was driven more by professional ambitions than emotional ties.
Speaking to France-Antilles Guadeloupe during a promotional visit to the Caribbean island, where he was unveiling his new sports brand, Constant opened up about the early days of his international career.
“My mother is from Guinea, it’s true, but she doesn’t know much about the country,” said Constant. “Back in 2008, I was at Toulouse. I had come through all the French youth teams but had lost my place because I wasn’t getting club minutes. At that point, the decision [to play for Guinea] was more professional than one of the heart — it was about getting visibility.”
The switch wasn’t without its challenges. Constant admits he was met with scepticism upon his arrival in Conakry: “It wasn’t easy at first. I wasn’t necessarily well received, because I didn’t know the country and I was seen as taking the place of a Guinean. I had to earn acceptance.”
Now firmly established in the national team setup, the 27-year-old added: “I’ve always been present and helped the team when needed. I’ve proven my commitment.”
Born in Fréjus in mainland France, Constant also has roots in Guadeloupe through his father, who hails from Petit-Bourg.
