Despite reported interest from overseas, Jean-Clair Todibo remained at OGC Nice this summer. The former Barcelona centre-back, who recently made his France debut, has now opened up on his decision to remain at the Allianz Riviera.
After a difficult spell at Barcelona, Todibo has slowly but surely rebuilt his career at Nice, having joined the club on loan in 2021 before making the move permanent just months later. He has since become a fixture in Les Aiglons’ defence, featuring 106 times for the club.
He is set to make many more. Despite links with a move abroad, notably to Manchester United, Todibo remained at the club this summer, and in an interview with L’Équipe, he opened up on his decision to remain at the Ligue 1 Uber Eats side.
“I don’t have a short memory. I know what the club gave me when I arrived. I have the trust of a club with whom I have flourished and the possibility to perform in France. By having a good season, I could play at the Euros,” said Todibo.
Todibo makes France debut
It is no surprise that Todibo’s thoughts are with Les Bleus. The former Barcelona defender made his debut for Didier Deschamps' side during the most recent international break, and having earned a taste of international football, he naturally wants more. For many, the means of securing international performance is through a big-money move, but not for Todibo.
“I can’t lie by saying that I didn’t think about saying to myself that I perhaps need to play at a “top club” to increase my chances, but there are guarantees of playing at Nice,” he said.
Having already made one mistake in his career by joining Barcelona - a move that didn’t work out and ultimately proved to be a setback, Todibo is wary of making further mistakes. “I didn’t want to make the wrong choice. I wait for people to present me with full projects. What is expected of me? Why bring me in? You can’t arrive at a club like that. I know what I have at Nice. Why step into the unknown,” said Todibo.
The French defender is part of the best defence in the league going into matchday five of Ligue 1 Uber Eats. Contributing to Nice’s collective defensive solidity will only further his argument to be part of Deschamps’ Euro 2024 squad at the end of the season.
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