Ghana youth midfielder Derrick Mensah talks about life in Czech Republic after completing his à move to Banik Ostrava.
What does it mean to be part of the Banik team?
It's a new experience for me and also a good step for my development.Ã I do not know exactly how large a change in my life is, I believe, I still have much to accomplish.Ã In Banik I will get a chance to play in a league competition, which I think has one of the best young talents. "
How do you like it so far in Ostrava?
From what I've seen, I like it here.à I like the environment here in the city and the club.à In the beginning, when I first arrived here it was quite cold, but Iââ¬â¢m used to the weather now.
You were reported to have signed for Club Africain after the African Under-20 Championship. Ã What happened?
After the Africa Cup, we got a lot of offers, but my former club Tema Youth decided to arrange a transfer to Tunisia.Ã Due to non-compliance I decided not to sign the contract and returned to Ghana. "
Then you had stint at Athletico Madrid, what it was the experience like for you?
In athletico I spent five months.à After three months I started to train with the A team, which was a good experience.à I trained with the likes of à Arda Turan or David Villa.à Realistically I have to admit that they are very experienced players.à For me to get to their level, I need more time.à I talked with coach Diego Simeone, who told me encouraged me to work hard.
Now you have become part Banik. What have been your impression so far? Ã
The team is very good to me.Ã They are all friendly to me and help me a lot.Ã Some guys had already played with some Ghanaian players in the past. Ã They have all tried to help me when I arrived.Ã They taught me a few words in Czech, which helped me a lot.
After your arrival in Banik, there have been talks about communication barrier between you and the coach Francis Kom?ackým.à Has this aspect improved?
I think the language barrier is a common problem if you find yourself in a foreign country,â⬠he told the clubââ¬â¢s official website. But thanks to Davor Janko communication with the coach is now easier. Moreover Iââ¬â¢m trying to learn the Czech words, and therefore may be in a few months, I will understand the coach better. à Iââ¬â¢ll be more understanding. Football has its own language which can be picked up quickly on the field.ââ¬
In addition to the foreign language, you have to get used to a different style of football.Ã What are the biggest differences between Ghana and Czech football?
The difference that I have noticed so far is the character of the game. When I came to Banik they told me I had to play hard, but for me it was normal, because I'm used to that style from Ghana.Ã I Ghana we play the Brazilian style, which means we keep the ball a lot.
We have now successfully completed your registration. What are we to expect from you in the blue and white jersey?
"I'm glad that everything is finally settled.Ã When I learned that my ITC was still not available, I was very sad. But as the saying goes, God knows what he's doing and knows what is best for humans.Ã So I was able to put up with it.Ã Now that everything is okay for me, it is time for me to help Banik as best as I can. Ã When I get the chance to play, I will contribute hundred and ten percent.Ã I'm fully focused not only in games but also in every training session.