Modeste says emotional goodbye to Köln, insists Dortmund move wasn't fueled by money
After signing for Borussia Dortmund, Anthony Modeste has said a heartfelt farewell to FC Köln, insisting that he's not leaving for the money.
Anthony Modeste has taken to Instagram to post an emotional goodbye message to FC Köln after his transfer to Borussia Dortmund was made official on Monday evening.
"I knew this day would come, but I didn't know when and how.... Deep down I always hoped it would come as late as possible, and why shouldn't I have finished my career in Cologne? But certain realities of football mean you can't control fate," wrote the 34-year-old French forward, who has found the net 79 times in 156 games for Köln.
"You can't forget 7 years in life. I signed with 'FC' the day my son was born. That will be engraved in my heart forever. 7 years, in which we have experienced laughter, crying, joy and sorrow. And these are circumstances that have strengthened my love for FC Köln. I will never forget that. I am and will remain an ardent supporter of FC Köln. And 'FC' will be in my heart forever. This club will always be special to me," he continued.
Modeste's transfer to Dortmund has led to anger among Köln fans, with some claiming that the move was fueled by money. The 34-year-old, however, insists that is not true.
"Despite what many might think, I'm not leaving for the money. I turned down big offers from the Gulf countries. I have always had the dream to experience the Champions League, and this opportunity has now come my way. I don't think it will come again," emphasized Modeste and went on:
"Thank you for everything! Thank you to all the managers I worked with. Thank you to all the staff, who have always been there for me, and to all the teammates without whom everything I've accomplished would not have been possible. And a big THANK YOU to you dear fans: You are the heart of this club, without all of you it wouldn't make sense!"