Grace Geyoro, a 28-year-old midfielder for the French national team, who trained at Paris Saint-Germain, joined the London City Lionesses this summer after a difficult transfer. Speaking to L’Equipe, the French international reflected on this milestone in her career.
Geyoro: “It pushed me to make this choice.”
How did your transfer come about?
There was a period when things were a bit complicated with the club (PSG), especially at the beginning of August. At the same time, there was interest from other clubs. London City arrived with a lot of determination.
I was still pleasantly surprised, because when you have three years left on your contract, it’s not easy. I felt they were so motivated, especially Michele Kang, the owner. This pushed me to make this choice because it wasn’t just London City (Chelsea was also interested).
Geyoro: “It’s a heartbreak.”
It seems you’ve also left a strong mark on the Parisian supporters.
I was enormously touched by their messages. I didn’t expect it. I’ve always had this connection with the club, with the supporters. When you leave, you realize that people were really attached to you. It’s a heartbreak.
I told myself I hadn’t done all that for nothing. I didn’t win every title, I didn’t go after the Champions League for this club. But in the end, the mark I left is stronger. I realize that I gave back to them what they gave me: dedication, love. I left in peace, without war. I continue to follow PSG; it remains my favorite club.”
The departure of such an important player, so attached to PSG, is never pleasant; some may have taken it badly. However, it’s generally understandable, and we can see that Geyoro was also affected by this transfer without having achieved all of her goals.
The midfielder spent many seasons in Paris, was even captain, and gave her all to help it grow. Except that she didn’t always have the “help” she needed in this project, which lacked stability and clarity. She saw great players leave without a convincing replacement. The same goes for the coaches. Not to mention the great tensions.
There was also the loss of her captaincy, decided by coach Olivier Echouafni without any discussion, which hurt a lot. In any case, she wanted to discover something new, with great opportunities available. This doesn’t stop her from loving PSG and hoping to see it grow. We appreciate, moreover, that she didn’t go to Lyon, unlike many Parisians.
