Celtic made advances to acquire Jocelin Ta Bi’s signature earlier in the winter market. The move didn’t go through, allowing Sunderland to step in.
Four days ago, Foot Mercato reported Régis Le Bris’ side were closing in on a deal for the Ivorian.
On Friday, Sunderland announced they’d completed the signing from Maccabi Netanya for an undisclosed fee.
Speaking to the Black Cats’ official website, the 20-year-old talked about the club’s fans and fulfilling his Premier League dream.
Ta Bi has given a fresh interview to Africa Foot, where he again highlighted these points. The outlet explains that behind his decision to pick the English ‘lies a deep, almost personal reflection on his career path and the man he wants to become.’
The new Sunderland signing gives an insight on what convinced him to pick Le Bris’ side.
He gave priority to Sunderland’s project, environment and their vision. Ta Bi explained his decision-making process over picking the English club.
“I didn’t just want to sign with a well-known club. I wanted a place where I could truly progress, learn, and develop,” he said.
“They talked to me about progression, not immediate results. That reassured me. I felt they believed in me, not just in what I could bring right away.”
Sunderland signing “will give everything”
The new arrival has asked the club and the supporters to be patient with him.
“I know I still have a lot of work to do. I haven’t proven anything yet. Every day, I want to progress, improve, understand what the top level demands,” Ta Bi explained.
“Here, I can learn without being rushed. I can make mistakes and learn from them. That’s very important for a young player.”
The Ivorian has made a promise to the Sunderland supporters on what they can expect of him.
“I will give everything. On the pitch, in training, every day. I want the fans to be proud of me,” he added.
