Kessie reveals Ibrahimovic advised him to join Barcelona

Franck Kessie talked about his ambition to work hard at

and help them succeed. The Ivorian revealed sought the advice of Zlatan Ibrahimovic ahead of completing his move to Barcelona. Ibrahimovic has previously represented Barca, helping them win the title in the 2009-10 season.

"

He told me it was a good place,"

Kessi said. "

He recommended that I work hard

."

Kessie and fellow new arrival Andreas Christensen will have to wait to make their debut with Barca president Joan Laporta once again confirming the club are unable to register either player.

Meanwhile, Laporta is hoping Kessie can help them reach their goal with his determination. Laporta said:

"We have absolute respect for our players.

"With whom the coach does not have, we are working on a consensual agreement. The sports management is working very well.

"It is not easy, because the footballers we want have contracts similar to their current ones. Most have the hope and illusion of convincing the coach. Logic will prevail."

Reports suggest that Barcelona has included a €500 million release clause in Kessie's contract, which expires in 2026. He scored 37 goals and 16 assists in 223 games for

. He was also named in the Serie A Team of the Year for the 2020-21 season and last season helped the Rossoneri win the Serie A title after 11 years.

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