Black Stars striker Ransford-Yeboah Konigsdorffer has opened up about his failed transfer to French Ligue 1 side OGC Nice, revealing how last-minute medical concerns ended what he described as a “big chance” to play abroad.
The 23-year-old forward was close to sealing the move from Hamburger SV, but the deal unexpectedly collapsed after Nice’s medical team raised fitness concerns. This came as a surprise to Konigsdorffer, who had been a regular starter for HSV and had missed only two matches last season.
“I was more surprised than anything, as I’ve missed almost no games for HSV in the last three years,” Konigsdorffer told HSV’s media team. “I spoke with the staff at Nice; I gave my opinion, and they gave me theirs. In the end, no common ground could be reached. The tests claimed there were some issues, and I debated them with the staff, but I just had to accept their opinions.”
While admitting his disappointment, the German-born Ghanaian is choosing to move forward, returning to Hamburg to prepare for the new season with the Bundesliga newcomers.
“It was a big chance for me to play abroad, but it was not meant to be. I just have to accept this and move on,” he said. “Everyone is pleased that I am back and everything is the same as before. I haven’t thought too much about how I’ll fit in here, as I feel good about being at HSV and in Hamburg, plus I know everyone here.”
Konigsdorffer is expected to feature in HSV’s upcoming DFB Pokal clash against Pirmasens before making his Bundesliga debut against Borussia Mönchengladbach. Despite the missed opportunity in France, he remains focused on making an impact in Germany’s top flight, confident in his role and relationships at the club.