Forest Star Opens Up About Bittersweet PSV Departure
Ibrahim Sangaré has revealed the deep emotional complexity behind his transfer from PSV Eindhoven to Nottingham Forest, highlighting how career progression and genuine club attachment can coexist.
The midfielder’s journey from PSV to the Premier League exemplifies the intricate balance between professional advancement and emotional investment in football.
During his transformative three-year spell in the Netherlands, which began with a €7m transfer from Toulouse in 2020, Sangaré accumulated an impressive 140 appearances and secured multiple domestic honors, including two KNVB Cups and three Johan Cruyff Shields.
His €35m move to Forest in September marked a significant career milestone, though footage of his visibly emotional PSV farewell sparked speculation about his transfer mindset.
Addressing these concerns, Sangaré articulated a nuanced perspective on his departure.
The Ivorian midfielder expressed profound gratitude for PSV’s role in his development, describing his initial transfer there as “magnificent” for his career trajectory.
He emphasized the authentic connection he forged with PSV supporters, attributing his emotional farewell to genuine appreciation rather than reluctance about his Forest move.
Sangaré contextualized his visible emotions as a natural response to departing a meaningful chapter in his career, while simultaneously affirming his enthusiasm for Forest’s project.
He praised his new club’s professionalism and ambitious outlook, particularly noting their evolution beyond relegation concerns toward higher table aspirations.
This candid reflection illuminates how modern footballers can simultaneously embrace new opportunities while honoring significant past relationships in their careers.