Bilal Brahimi moved to Middlesbrough after successfully completing a trial with them in 2017.
The 19-year-old was first introduced to Boro’s U18 side before being promoted to U23 side a year later. In September 2018, he even featured for the senior team in the second round of the EFL Trophy.
Last week, the young forward left the English club and completed a switch to Reims, signing a three-year deal.
French outlet Foot Mercato sat down for an interview with the teenager and during the course of the lengthy chat, the attacker explained Jonathan Woodgate’s side were keen on retaining him.
Brahimi also explained that prior to his switch to Reims, Middlesbrough wanted to offer him a new deal, and there were other clubs chasing him.
“Middlesbrough wanted to make me a new offer. I took the time to think. I thought a lot about whether I should sign for Middlesbrough or Reims.
“I had already started with Boro. But Reims offered me a new challenge. The project was the most complete. It was the one that best met my criteria.”
The Paris-born youngster also explained a personal reason for his decision to join Reims.
“I’m from the Paris region. So, the fact that Reims is close, played [a role in my decision to join Reims],” he added.
“My family will come to see me more often at my matches. My father follows football a lot, he is really behind me. So, it will be easier for him to come and see me.”
Despite leaving the Championship side, Brahimi had only positive comments about Middlesbrough.
“I can only remember positive [things] from my time Middlesbrough,” the Frenchman stressed.
“I spent two great years, both on and off the field. I was able to learn English, which is a very important language in football. I met people who have supported me a lot and people like Rudy Gestede and Adlene Guedioura, who were there to give me advice like a big brother.”
