After beating the two Madrid clubs, Atletico and Real, the Lille club will face Juventus in Turin this Tuesday, November 5 at 8 p.m. (UT). Faced with this new challenge in front of a major European player, the experience of the Algerian Aissa Mandi will not be too much. Arriving last summer in the north of France, the Fennecs defender is already unanimous.
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From his first steps in Lille, Aissa Mandi felt at home. Very happy to join a club in line with his ambitions. “ It happened quite naturally, he says. I know Ligue 1, obviously the language, there is no adaptation time and I think the project is perfect for me. »
Trained in Reims, Mandi left Ligue 1 eight years ago to discover Spanish football with a stint at Betis Seville then at Villarreal.
“Respected by everyone »
At just 33 years old, the Algerian defender can therefore bring all his experience to the service of LOSC and its coach Bruno Genesio. “He was integrated very quickly. He’s a boy who knows the French championship very well and who arrived here by blending completely into the group. He already has a very important influence on the group because he is a boy who has experience. He talks a lot on the pitch, guides the younger players in particular, and is very respected by everyone. Every time I called on him, he responded.. »
With each start, Mandi has often shown himself at his best, notably two weeks ago against Atletico Madrid. He, who has 97 caps with the Fennecs, wants to set an example. “ That’s what I’ve done my whole career. It’s something that I particularly like. I occupy this role of captain in the selection. Afterwards, on the pitch, I try not to give up and lead. I like to speak to encourage, to be positive. »
A perfect relay for the staff, who try to manage their defender’s playing time as best as possible. But with long-term injuries to Santos and Ismaily, Mandi could play even more.
With Ligue 1 and a Champions League campaign to run, the season is likely to be busy.