In a lengthy interview with Onze Mondial, Brice Samba discussed his choice of national sports allegiance. The goalkeeper for RC Lens revealed that he turned down the opportunity to represent the Democratic Republic of Congo, his country of origin.
As a solid starter for RC Lens, Brice Samba is one of the contenders to succeed Hugo Lloris in the French national team. The goalkeeper is in competition with Mike Maignan and Alphonse Areola for the main goalkeeping position. Even though his competitors are considered favorites, the 29-year-old player has a chance to participate in the Euros with the French team guarding the goal.
Regarding his ambitions with the French national team, the last line of defense for RC Lens revealed that Congo had approached him to convince him to play for the Leopards. However, Brice Samba politely declined the offer.
“It’s true that I turned down the Congolese national team, the first time was in 2013 or 2014. I was very young. In my mind, it has always been France, honestly. And as time went on, the more people asked me, ‘Are you sure it’s still France?’ Even when I signed in the Championship, people didn’t believe it anymore. Only my family, close ones, and I kept believing. I’m proud to be in this group; I made it here when few thought I could,” explained Brice Samba during an interview with Onze Mondial.
“With Mike (Maignan) and Alphonse (Areola), we’ve known each other since our training days. We faced each other many times in PSG – Le Havre matches. We’re a group of friends. We have a great relationship with Franck Raviot, the goalkeeping coach. We work together harmoniously. Things are going well with coach Didier Deschamps as well,” Brice Samba added.
