Senegal’s forward, Sadio Mané, finalized his acquisition of Bourges Foot 18, a French club competing in the fourth tier, as confirmed on Wednesday.
Insider information revealed that Mané had expressed his interest in investing in a football club for a while, and his connection with the former Bourges Foot 18 president, Cheikh Sylla, played a crucial role in his choice to invest.
Notably, Sylla will continue to serve as the club’s president.
According to an insider, Mané provided financial support to the club to aid in player recruitment during the previous summer transfer window.
An official statement was released on Wednesday, confirming the investment made by the former player of Liverpool and Bayern Munich.
A club statement read: “Bourges Foot 18 is proud to officially announce the structural support of Sadio Mané. An international star, Sadio Mané is now one of the best footballers in the world.
“Known for his professionalism and strong human values, Sadio Mané is committing to Bourges through Bourges Foot 18 to promote the professionalization of local football. His decision to support the club testifies to his interest in the transformation initiated by the current president, Cheikh Sylla, and the growth potential that Bourges Foot 18 represents.
“This collaboration promises to bring a new and exciting dynamic to the club and to the entire city! His arrival will have a national and international impact that will shine a light on the Bourges club and the entire community.”
Mané’s acquisition has also garnered the endorsement of the city’s mayor, Yann Galut.
Situated 250 kilometers away from Paris in the heart of France, the club has never competed above the French second division. Bourges currently occupies the second-to-last position in Group B of the Championnat National.
After a challenging year at Bayern, which culminated in a suspension due to an alleged altercation with teammate Leroy Sané following their Champions League loss to Manchester City, Mané made a move to the Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr on August 1.
During his tenure at Anfield, Mané secured six trophies, including the 2019 Champions League and the 2020 Premier League title.
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