SV Werder Bremen have made their second signing ahead of the 2023/24 season in Naby Keïta. The 28-year-old midfielder joins the club on a free transfer from Premier League side Liverpool FC. The captain of the Guinea national team spoke to WERDER-TV about the reasons for his transfer, his memories of matches against the Green-Whites and his personal aims.
WERDER.DE: Moin Naby, welcome to SV Werder. What are your memories of SVW and the wohninvest WESERSTADION up to now?
Naby Keïta: I played here with Leipzig. I remember the stadium and a very good atmosphere. Now I hope to experience this atmosphere again and that we will be successful together as a team.
WERDER.DE: For many, your move to Bremen certainly comes as a surprise. Why did you choose Werder despite interest from other clubs?
NabyKeïta: I understand that many people are wondering why I am making the move from Liverpool FC to Werder Bremen. When I spoke to the coach and the sporting director, they told me about the club’s project. After that, I thought about it a lot, with my family too. In the end, I had to make a decision and I chose Werder Bremen. I am very happy with this decision and will give everything to the team in the coming season.
WERDER.DE: Did a return to the Bundesliga play a part, where you previously had a successful time in Leipzig?
NabyKeïta: Yes, I missed that time very much. But now I’m back in the Bundesliga and hope to continue the old times. Of course, some things have changed. When I was in England, I kept watching the Bundesliga and saw that there were many talented young players. Now I’m back and I’ll work even harder to help my team.
WERDER.DE: So you also followed the Bundesliga in England.
SVW can confirm the signing of Naby Keïta from Liverpool FC on a free transfer ✍️#werderpic.twitter.com/BGqD8u6XAP
— SV Werder Bremen EN (@werderbremen_en) June 9, 2023
Naby Keïta: Every now and then. It’s very similar in England: the stadiums are always full and that’s just like here in Germany. I also really enjoyed the league games here, so now I’m looking forward to being back and especially the atmosphere.
WERDER.DE: So far we only know you as a very good opponent. How would you describe yourself as a player?
Naby Keïta: Before, I was on the other side, now I’m part of Werder Bremen. I don’t like to talk about myself that much. I’m sure there will be some who don’t give Werder a lot of credit, but I’m looking forward to the task ahead. I’ve watched videos of Werder and think that if I can bring my quality to the team, we will be successful next season. I firmly believe in the capabilities of this team.
WERDER.DE: Let’s just keep talking about you for a minute. You had a great idol…
NabyKeïta: He’s my father’s favourite player, and when I was little, I used to watch his videos. I was very small at the time, but my father told me that I would have the same potential as Deco. That’s why he gave me the nickname Deco.
If I can bring my quality to the team, we will be successful next season.Naby Keïta
WERDER.DE: Deco also played in Bremen with Barcelona, can you also remember the Werder team at that time?
Naby Keïta: I couldn’t watch that game because we didn’t have a TV in Africa, but later I watched the game. Werder played really well and think they drew in the end.
WERDER.DE: Now you’re here at Werder Bremen. What are your aims at SVW?
Naby Keïta: First I have to think about helping the team try and win every weekend. After that, when I have the chance, I like to try and score and give everything to make sure we pick up points at the end and secure the victory.
WERDER.DE: You have scored three goals in three games against Werder. Can we now look forward to you scoring for the Green-Whites?
Naby Keïta: Well, I remember the goals. I noticed Werder even back then. When we played at home in Leipzig, I got the ball in midfield and scored after a solo run. I hope to repeat that for Werder Bremen.
WERDER.DE: We hope so too. We are very happy that you are here. Thank you very much for the interview!
