Lille bolster back line with Sidibé
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
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LOSC Lille Métropole have readied themselves for Mathieu Debuchy's probable departure by signing promising right-back Djibril Sidibé, 20, from ES Troyes Aube Champagne.
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LOSC Lille Métropole have brought in right-back Djibril Sidibé from promoted Ligue 1 club ES Troyes Aube Champagne for an undisclosed fee.
Sidibé, who will turn 20 on Sunday, went straight from signing a four-year contract to turning out for his new side last night, taking part to Lille's comprehensive 6-0 pre-season win against Stade Montois. He started 32 of Troyes' 38 league game last season, scoring once. His arrival may pave the way for Mathieu Debuchy's departure.
"The challenge is high but extremely exciting," said Sidibé, who played for France's Under-20 side at the Toulon Tournament in May. "It's a big step in my career, as I've only played in Ligue 2 so far. I'll begin to experience the top flight and European football. I'm somehow in a new dimension."
Lille, who finished third in Ligue 1 last season, will enter this season’s UEFA Champions League in the play-off round and will find out their opponents at the draw on 10 August.
