Mikayil Faye has credited his time at FC Barcelona with playing a crucial role in his tactical and technical development, as he embarks on a new phase of his career with French club Rennes.
The 20-year-old Senegalese international, who signed for Rennes in the summer of 2024 after a season with Barcelona, spoke candidly in an interview with Africasoccer about his deep connection with the Spanish giants. Despite moving on, Faye remains a devoted supporter of the Catalan club and holds fond memories of his time at the Camp Nou.
“I’ve been a fan of this club since I was a child,” Faye said when asked about his continued affection for Barcelona. “I’ve always loved Barça. Even now, I try to follow all their matches.
Sometimes our fixtures with Rennes coincide, but when that happens, I make sure to watch the replay the next day. So yes, I can say I still watch all of Barça’s games.”
Faye’s admiration for the club was evident as he reflected on watching Barcelona’s UEFA Champions League semi-final clash against Inter Milan. “Yes, like everyone else, I was in front of my TV to watch that beautiful match,” he said.
Having joined Barcelona as a promising young talent, Faye quickly immersed himself in the club’s rich footballing philosophy. He praised the level of education he received, particularly in tactical awareness and technical skills.
“At Barça, I evolved tactically and technically,” he said. “This experience helps me today in my daily work. I only take away positive memories from my time at Barcelona.”
The defender highlighted the legendary status of the club and the strength of its youth system as key influences in his development. “We’re talking about Barça—an institution,” Faye noted.
“The quality of its youth academy, La Masia, is recognised worldwide. Just look at their first team and the level of young players coming out of the academy. That says everything.”
Though he has now committed to a new chapter in Ligue 1, Faye remains closely connected with many of his former teammates at Barcelona.
He mentioned keeping in daily contact with a number of young stars from the club, including Lamine Yamal, Alejandro Baldé, Marc Casadó, and Fermín López.
“I often talk with Lamine, Baldé, Casado, Fermín… we keep in touch regularly,” he said, underscoring the close-knit bond he continues to share with players who came through the ranks alongside him.
As Faye begins his journey in France with Rennes, expectations are high for the young central defender. His time in Spain has left an indelible mark, one that he carries with pride and gratitude.
While he now wears different colours, his heart still beats for the club that shaped his formative professional years.
For Faye, the experience at Barcelona was more than just a stepping stone—it was the foundation of his footballing identity.
