‘I’ve come home’ – Franck Kessie opens up on emotional Atalanta return

Ivory Coast midfielder Franck Kessie says his return to Atalanta was a heartfelt decision after completing an emotional move back to the Italian club.

The 29-year-old was presented to the media following his return to Bergamo, where he began his European football journey after leaving Ivory Coast as an 18-year-old.

Kessie, who spent three years playing in Saudi Arabia, said Atalanta’s interest made his decision straightforward despite holding discussions with other clubs.

‘I’ve come home’

Speaking about his return to Atalanta, Kessie expressed his gratitude to the club and its management.

“Returning here was a heartfelt decision. I thank the club and especially Luca Percassi: I’ve come home. I’m very happy. I was a kid back then, and today I’ve become much more mature than I was ten years ago. I’m proud to be here and be part of this great project.”

The midfielder reflected on how much he has developed since first arriving in Bergamo from Ivory Coast.

“For me, Bergamo was the first European city I saw since I left the Ivory Coast at 18. Here I became a great footballer and learned so much, both as a footballer and as a person. Bergamo has been an important part of my life.”

Reflecting on Saudi Arabia

Kessie also spoke positively about his three-year spell in Saudi Arabia, describing the experience as an important chapter in his career.

“As I always say, ‘Franck is always ready,’ and I can’t wait to get started again. Saudi Arabia was a great experience outside of Europe: I spent three years there. It was a great experience for my career.”

The experienced midfielder now returns to Serie A with the ambition of contributing to Atalanta’s latest sporting project.

Ready to work under Sarri

Kessie said he is prepared to play wherever required by head coach Maurizio Sarri, whether in midfield or a more advanced role.

“We work with him every day. Mr. Sarri is a great coach, and position-wise, I have no problem playing as a midfielder or even as a playmaker. The priority is to give my all for the team.”

‘We have to fight for everything’

The Ivorian international has set ambitious targets for his return, insisting Atalanta must compete across all competitions.

“In Bergamo, you have to fight for everything: the league, the Coppa Italia, and the Conference League. We want to try to compete for everything, and that’s why we’re here. I’ve spoken to many teams, but as I said, when Atalanta came into the picture, they showed me so much faith in me, and I didn’t think twice about accepting this destination,” Kessie said.

He continued, “It was a heartfelt choice that came first: Atalanta called, and going there meant coming home. Ending my career at Atalanta? It wouldn’t be a bad thing, but now I’m focusing on the present. We’ll see about the future, but why not?”