The news had been circulating for several days, and it is now official: Kevin Anin, 25 years old, from Sochaux, has signed a four-and-a-half-year contract in favor of OGC Nice.
The Eagles have their first recruit. And while he is not the much-sought right attacker by René Marsiglia, the former Sochaux player has indeed made a “unanimous” impression among the Nice staff and president Jean Pierre Rivère to strengthen the azure squad. “Kevin had a remarkable attitude but above all he kept his commitment and signed with us despite offers from other clubs, notably an English club offering him 2.5 times more than us. He came to Nice to progress, I am sure the supporters will like him because he is a fighter.” A fighter who had some misadventures, not to say some “clashes” with his former club Sochaux. But the new Gym player doesn’t wish to go back to that. “I had simply lost the desire to play, it was a very difficult time for me. Fortunately, OGC Nice appeared, I spoke with the coach and Mr. Roy came to see me. I felt supported and since I am someone who is driven by emotions…” confesses Kevin Anin. A new start, therefore, for the new Eagle determined to take flight. “I was completely drawn by the challenge, the club is focused on the future, the fans are passionate, my family is nearby, it was ideal for me. I want to prove people wrong about me. I love to fight,” emphasizes the Le Havre native.
“Lucky to have signed such a player”
René Marsiglia, the Nice coach, is delighted. “I am really enthusiastic about Kevin’s arrival. He is a great player, and I don’t use my words lightly. He’s a real plus for the team. He’s a midfielder who does not hesitate to fight and make contact in the right sense of the word. I think he will bring a lot to the club,” confirms the Nice coach. And even though the man of Caribbean origin has a fairly tumultuous past in off-field activities with his former club, René Marsiglia is not worried: “I only focus on the player’s quality. We need to be able to start fresh. We are starting from zero, and Kevin knows it; he is quite intelligent. Plus, he will wear number 17, my favorite number, so there’s no reason (laughs),” jokes the coach. Kevin Anin was then able to join his new teammates to participate in the first training under his new colors. The man is not alone, and he reunites with two former teammates, not the least: captain Didier Digard, with whom he played at Le Havre, and young defender Kevin Gomis. This should ease his integration. However, he is not yet qualified for the Saturday match in the 16th of the French Cup. He is expected to make his debut in a week against Montpellier at the Stade du Ray.
