Ghanaian midfielder Salis Abdul Samed has shared insights into his connection with former RC Lens captain Seko Fofana.
Fofana, the Ivory Coast midfielder, departed the Ligue 1 side Lens during the summer transfer window to join the Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr.
Since his departure, Lens has faced challenges in maintaining the impressive form that allowed them to compete toe-to-toe with Paris Saint-Germain in the previous season.
Lens approached victory, nearly clinching the title as they secured qualification for the UEFA Champions League, marking their first entry into the prestigious tournament in two decades.
“He was like my big brother, he advised me, helped me on the pitch, and we understood each other easily. He did his things in Lens, hats off. It hurt me a little that he left, but everyone has their own career,” he said.
Lens experienced their initial loss in the Champions League this week against Dutch powerhouse PSV. However, they still have a chance to advance to the knockout stage.
During the summer transfer window, the French team acquired Senegalese midfielder Nampalys Mendy as a replacement for Fofana.
Abdul Samed is anticipated to join the Black Stars squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Madagascar and Comoros Island next week.