Ouattara Lauds Inspiring Role of Mbeumo and Wissa

New Star’s Reflections on Brentford’s Past Leaders

Dango Ouattara, the record signing for Brentford, acknowledges the positive impact of former African forwards Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa on his early career with the Bees. Since his transfer from Bournemouth for £42 million in August, Ouattara has emerged as a promising player, netting three goals in six league starts at home.

“I was fortunate to get to know Wissa a little, which has been beneficial,” Ouattara shared with BBC Sport Africa regarding the DR Congo international. “He explained that the club maintains a close relationship between the staff and players, and I’ve experienced that myself.”

Wissa’s Remarkable Influences

In his last season with Brentford, Wissa delivered impressive statistics with 19 goals and four assists. He subsequently joined Newcastle for an initial fee of £50 million at the close of the summer transfer window. Unfortunately, injuries have limited his participation this season, barring him from representing his country at the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).

Mbeumo, who joined Manchester United for £65 million after scoring 20 league goals and registering seven assists, also inspired Ouattara. “Their achievements serve as motivation for all strikers, regardless of their background,” Ouattara reflected, specifically praising Wissa’s ability to do well without penalty conversions in the previous season.

Acknowledging Team Dynamics

Brentford’s transition has seen challenges following coach Thomas Frank’s departure for Tottenham, which could complicate matters for new boss Keith Andrews. However, Ouattara commended Andrews for his supportive approach, stating, “He pays genuine attention to us, and that matters a lot.”

Even before playing, he recalls how Andrews was there to support him. “This camaraderie within the team makes it an excellent environment for players.”

Everyone’s Contribution Counts at Afcon

This season, only Manchester City’s Erling Haaland has outperformed Brentford’s Igor Thiago, who has scored 11 goals. Ouattara has been key as well—claiming three goals and winning the most penalties in the league.

The Burkina Faso international is gearing up to participate in his third consecutive Afcon, eager for a more significant role after a previous injury limited him to a single start in 2023. Previously, as a player for Lorient, Ouattara contributed to his team’s progress in the 2021 tournament, although an ejection hindered him from further participation.

“There are many seasoned players in the squad, each with their own experiences. Everyone plays a crucial role,” the 23-year-old noted.

A pivotal player for Burkina Faso is Sunderland’s Bertrand Traore, the captain nearing his 100th cap. Ouattara acknowledged Traore’s leadership, praising his calm and constructive communication style.

With the potential to meet former teammate Mbeumo in the knockout stages in Morocco, Ouattara’s squad prepares to kick off their Afcon campaign against Equatorial Guinea in Casablanca.

With strong aspirations, Burkina Faso eagerly anticipates their Afcon journey, hoping to make an impactful statement on the continental stage.