Manu Koné

Role Model

With the football tournament at the Olympic Games in Paris24 in full swing, U23 captain and 22-year-old footballer Manu Koné is determined to win a gold medal in his home country. The Borussia Mönchengladbach midfielder from Colombes is one of the rising stars of French football and is ready to show the younger generation that success is possible, even if you come from the periphery. Koné told us about his journey and the attitude he brings to the competition. He is a true role model and the new star of More Than.

Full look ROA.

Full look ROA.

Jacket and trousers COMFY OUTDOOR GARMENT, sunglasses RENDEL, sunglasses case IL BISONTE.

As a resident of the suburbs, what did Paris represent for you during your childhood?

The suburbs are the foundation, I have only good memories and I’m even happy to come from the suburbs, I have no regrets.

You moved to Toulouse at around 15 years old. What did this life change feel like at such a young age?

The only change was more about moving to a new city, also leaving "home" at the age of 11 to go to Clairefontaine for two years. I was feeling ready for Toulouse, and my parents knew very well that when it comes to football - I’m in my zone.

Your skills got you to represent the U21 national team. Thierry Henry named you captain of the French team at the Olympics, where you’re playing at home, in front of your family and friends. How do you feel?

I'm looking forward to participating, and especially being a Parisian, it's an obligation for me to give my all and bring home the gold medal. It will be a point of pride for my family. Being captain is a responsibility that I appreciate; I like showing the way to my teammates.

Long sleeves ÉTUDES, trousers J.L-A.L, necklace AXEP, shoes PRADA.

Long sleeves ÉTUDES, necklace AXEP.

Tracksuit J.LAL, shoes FRANCK PELLEGRINO X CLARKS ORIGINALS, necklace DARKAI.

Back in 2017, when you were just 16, you were playing at the Toulouse training center in slides and socks. Now you have worn a custom Berluti suit for the Olympic opening ceremony as captain of the team. How do you feel?

It was a real enlightenment. When I was younger I didn't necessarily think much about getting to such an important milestone, but as time went on it started to feel real until it was here now. And I know the clothes are really nice.

Has your love for fashion always been there or is it a recent thing?

I’ve always liked to look good. I was shy when I was little, but now it’s been a while since I’ve started taking an interest in fashion.

Who dresses the best in the U21 team?

I’d say myself, otherwise Khephren or Costello.

“The suburbs are the foundation, I have only good memories and I’m even happy to come from the suburbs, I have no regrets.”

More Than - Manu Koné Role Model | Image 520200

“The suburbs are the foundation, I have only good memories and I’m even happy to come from the suburbs, I have no regrets.”

More Than - Manu Koné Role Model | Image 520201

Will you be dressing up for the Clairefontaine walk?

Yes, we’ll try to be a bit classy but not too much; the priority is to bring back the gold medal.

What will be in your playlist on the pitch?

It will depend on the mood, but I’ll probably listen to KAARIS, Ninho, Tiakola, L2b gang, and especially La Team Paiya.

Tell me about this great idea of the MK CUP tournament. Why? Where?

The idea of the MK CUP has always been in my mind. I had role models throughout my life , and I want to be an example for the young people from my area. Since I was fifteen, when I started playing "seriously," I always told myself that one day I had to become a pro to give back to my city. For me, the idea of this event is to make the city happy - to motivate the youth to become someone.