Benjamin Mendy Reflects on the Absence of Nkoulou and Ayew During AFCON 2015
Olympique de Marseille’s young left-back, Benjamin Mendy, has opened up about the significant impact the absences of Nicolas Nkoulou and André Ayew will have during the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Speaking to OMTV, Mendy highlighted how both players are integral not only on the pitch but also in the locker room.
“They are leaders,” Mendy said. “Whether in the locker room or on the pitch.”
In particular, Nicolas Nkoulou’s absence holds special meaning for Mendy. The Cameroonian international has been more than just a teammate — he has been a mentor.
“The absence of Nicolas is even more important for me. During matches, he talks to me very often and gives me advice. He encourages me and replaces me when necessary,” Mendy explained.
While acknowledging how much he’ll miss Nkoulou’s presence, Mendy sees this as a personal challenge and an opportunity for growth.
“But it can be a good thing for me. It should allow me to grow and be more independent on the pitch. It is a milestone that I must take to progress.”
As Nkoulou joins Cameroon at the AFCON and Ayew represents Ghana, Mendy will have to step up and mature without their guidance — a test he’s seemingly ready to embrace.
