18-year-old attacking midfielder Zabi has signed his first professional contract with the Stade de Reims reserve team, marking an important milestone in his career.
The Ivorian player, who previously played for Ivoire FC in his home country, officially joined the French club on Tuesday.
Dramane Dembélé, Zabi’s agent, spoke to Africafoot about the details surrounding the transfer and the qualities that made his client stand out.
He highlighted Zabi’s physical attributes, technical ability, and versatility as key factors in the move.
He has a very interesting physique, an above-average technique, and he knows how to combine the two effectively.
He has an excellent passing ability, which allows him to break lines and provide assists for attackers.
His speed is another strength,” Dembélé explained.
𝗭𝗮𝗯𝗶 rejoint l’équipe Pro 2 du SDR ! 🔴⚪️
Le jeune Ivoirien de 18 ans intègre l’équipe réserve du SDR, dirigée par 𝘍𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘬 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘤̧𝘰𝘯, où il découvrira le championnat de National 3 !
𝘉𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘶𝘦 𝘡𝘢𝘣𝘪 ! 🤝 🔎 https://t.co/Cw2tZ9rxYn pic.twitter.com/ZlZeJrlsGI
— Stade de Reims (@StadeDeReims) January 7, 2025
Zabi’s development has seen him play in various positions during his training, ranging from central defender to winger, before settling in the midfield, where he is expected to make the most impact.
Despite reports from some media outlets suggesting that the transfer negotiations were prolonged, Dembélé clarified that the process was, in fact, much quicker than anticipated.
It was quite the opposite; the process was rather fast.
Reims is accustomed to recruiting African players and they do it very well.
Zabi spent a few days on trial, during which the staff observed him and recognised the qualities I mentioned,” said Dembélé.
Zabi’s arrival at Stade de Reims was preceded by discussions with the club’s staff, including reserve team coach Franck Charançon.
Dembélé noted that the club’s comprehensive approach to player development played a crucial role in the decision to bring Zabi on board.
An exchange with the entire staff was made.
Reims has a collaborative team that works together.
When they recruit a player like Zabi, the goal is to help him evolve with the first team, but without rushing.
This requires careful planning and a clear program,” he added.
Zabi’s move to Reims comes as part of a broader strategy by the club, which already has six Ivorian players within its ranks.
This strong Ivorian presence was a key factor in Zabi’s decision to make the move to France.
Of course, adapting to European football is a major consideration for any player coming from Africa.
But he was very well received by the staff and teammates, which will certainly help him adjust more smoothly,” Dembélé concluded.
With a promising future ahead, Zabi’s transfer to Reims marks the beginning of what is expected to be a bright career in European football.
