Joane Gadou, a promising 17-year-old defender, has swapped the glitz of Paris for the grit of Salzburg, and the move is already paying dividends.
After developing at Paris Saint-Germain’s academy since 2020, the French U-17 international, who starred in the 2023 UEFA European Under-17 Championships, has embraced a bold new chapter with Austria’s Red Bull Salzburg.
Speaking to L’Équipe, Gadou explained his decision: “This was the best project for me.” Salzburg’s intense training regime and high-tempo style convinced him to sign a three-year deal reportedly worth €10 million, rejecting PSG’s offer of a professional contract.
“The high pressing and quick transitions here suit my game. I’ve matured tactically and feel this is the right environment to evolve into a complete defender,” Gadou said.
Since joining in September, the Aubervilliers-born Ivorian centre-back has broken into Salzburg’s starting lineup, featuring in three Austrian Bundesliga matches. Despite his rapid adjustment, he has yet to make his UEFA Champions League debut.
While PSG may rue losing a player of his caliber, Gadou remains focused, confident that his Austrian adventure will shape him into a future star.
