Ghana defender Gideon Mensah has set his sights on establishing himself as one of the Bundesliga’s best left-backs after joining FC Köln from French club AJ Auxerre.
The 28-year-old made an impressive start to life in Germany, helping Köln secure a 3-2 victory over TSG Hoffenheim on his Bundesliga debut at the RheinEnergieStadion on Saturday.
Speaking to Flashscore, Mensah admitted he did not know much about Köln before completing the move but said his previous experience in Austria had prepared him for the demands of German football.
“Before coming here, I didn’t really know too much about Köln. Obviously, I watch the Bundesliga, so I know about the team,” he said.
The Black Stars defender believes his time with Red Bull Salzburg gave him a good understanding of the style of football played in Germany.
“I know a bit about German football because I’ve played in Salzburg and Austrian football is almost like the football in Germany here. We all know about the high pressing, the running and the aggression whenever you watch the Bundesliga.”
After four successful seasons at Auxerre, where he established himself as one of Ligue 1’s most consistent left-backs, Mensah is determined to reproduce that form in Germany.
“The goal is very clear for me. My years in Auxerre were very good because I became one of the most consistent left-backs in the league. Coming here to Germany, I have the same goal.”
Mensah said his ambitions extend beyond helping Köln perform well this season, as he wants to make a lasting mark in the Bundesliga.
“My goal is to help Köln win as much as possible. By the end of my first season, I want everybody to know me as one of the best left-backs in the league.”
Mensah is expected to feature again next weekend when Köln travel to face VfB Stuttgart at the MHPArena.
