Ex-Senegal manager Amara Traoré finds amusement in compatriots supporting European powerhouses over local clubs, affirming his staunch loyalty towards hometown outfit La Linguère.
In an interview with Afrik-Foot, the former midfield general outlined his voluntary presidency of Saint-Louis-based La Linguère which he guided into the CAF Champions League previously as coach.
“When I see people supporting Barcelona, Real Madrid, it makes me laugh,” remarked Traoré. “I support two teams: Linguère de Saint-Louis and the Senegal team.”
He did reserve special affection for former French club Gueugnon, where Traoré is hailed iconically as the “Blacksmith” from eight successful playing seasons.
However, La Linguère and the national side remain closest to his heart, dedicating current efforts to structuring his boyhood club sustainably.
With the team languishing in Senegal’s amateur divisions lately, Traoré also launched an academy aimed at producing local talent and preventing gifted youngsters from being lost to neighbouring countries.
“There is the risk of seeing these players in the north opting for the Mauritania selection,” he warned.
Additionally, the 1987 African Footballer of the Year advocated increased financial assistance for La Linguère and Casa Sport from the Senegal Football Federation given geographical handicaps.
“It is costly financially and in terms of energy,” stressed Traoré regarding vast domestic travel distances.
While resisting suggestions of ambitions to become national federation president someday, 61-year-old Traoré remains devoted to grassroots development through La Linguère as his foremost priority.
Sénégal : Amara Traoré – « quand on tire comme ça avec un groupe, il faut faire attention » https://t.co/sIoXGzeulf pic.twitter.com/CQx5eYVD1u
— Afrik-Foot (@afrikfoot) December 25, 2023
