Maupay buzzing to join Sevilla: 'Almeyda told me he needed a player like me'
French striker Neal Maupay opens up about his Sevilla move, his connection with manager Almeyda, and how former Sevilla man Kondogbia encouraged the transfer.
The Sevilla new boy is raring to go after completing his winter transfer from Marseille, expressing his delight at joining the Andalusian outfit.
Escape from Marseille struggles
Neal Maupay has finally been registered with La Liga and is now officially a Sevilla player. The Frenchman arrives after a difficult spell at Marseille where he found himself on the periphery of the squad.
“It’s been a bit complicated for me being sidelined,” Maupay admitted, revealing he kept himself sharp despite limited opportunities in France. The striker maintained his fitness knowing the January window would bring fresh chances - and Sevilla came calling.
Almeyda connection key to move
The relationship with Sevilla gaffer Matías Almeyda appears to have been instrumental in Maupay’s decision to head to Spain. The pair clearly hit it off during initial conversations, with the striker revealing:
- Almeyda specifically told Maupay he needed a player of his profile
- Maupay was impressed by the manager’s mentality and achievements
- The personal connection felt right - “Sometimes your heart tells you what’s good”
The striker values Almeyda’s player-friendly approach and the confidence he shows in his squad - something Maupay feels he particularly needs at this stage of his career.
From one passionate city to another
Maupay sees parallels between Marseille and Sevilla, noting both cities share a proper football culture with passionate supporters. Former Sevilla midfielder Geoffrey Kondogbia, who played with Maupay at Marseille, gave the move his blessing and encouraged the striker to make the switch.
Adaptation shouldn’t be a problem either. Several French speakers in the squad, including César Azpilicueta, will help Maupay settle, while his Argentine mother gives him a head start with Spanish - though he admits he’s been a bit of a “lazy geezer” with the language previously.
Ready to connect with the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán faithful
The striker’s already bagged his first goals in training and has been struck by the positive atmosphere around the club. He’s particularly excited about playing at the Sánchez-Pizjuán, having heard all about the atmosphere.
“I might be a player who connects quickly with fans because I always give everything,” Maupay explained, suggesting his all-action style will win over the Sevilla supporters.
As for his playing style, Maupay is versatile - comfortable as a lone striker, in a partnership, or playing just behind another forward. He believes he could form a complementary partnership with Akor Adams, offering different qualities to the Nigerian.
Having overcome a serious knee injury as a teenager and fought his way to the Premier League without any handouts, Maupay’s now ready for his Spanish adventure. His debut is expected to come on Monday when Sevilla travel to Mallorca. As the man himself says - he’s absolutely “ready for the boat race”!