Naby Keïta is a highly accomplished Guinean professional footballer born on February 10, 1995, in Conakry. Renowned for his dynamic playing style, Keïta excels as a central midfielder, showcasing versatility in both defensive and offensive contributions.
His remarkable journey began with Santoba de Conakry before making a name for himself at FC Istres in France. Keïta's breakthrough occurred at Red Bull Salzburg, winning the Austrian Bundesliga and Austrian Cup double. His success continued at RB Leipzig, earning recognition in the Bundesliga Team of the Season and the UEFA Europa League Squad of the Season.
In 2018, Keïta joined Liverpool, securing triumphs in the UEFA Champions League, FIFA Club World Cup, and the Premier League. Following his tenure with Liverpool, he signed with Bundesliga club Werder Bremen in 2023.
Keïta's impact extends to the international stage, representing Guinea in multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and earning accolades for his skillful and dynamic midfield play.
The First Steps in Santoba of Conakry
Naby Laye Keita, born on February 10, 1995 in Conakry, Guinea, has emerged as one of the most promising talents in world football. At the age of nine, he joined Santoba de Conakry before embarking on a European adventure that would define his career.
Professional debut at FC Istres
Keïta's dreams of playing in France led him first to unsuccessful trials in Lorient and Le Mans in 2011. However, his determination to penetrate France keeps him on the European continent. A detection tournament in Marseille led him to FC Istres in November 2013. Despite the club's relegation to the National, Keïta became the revelation of the League 2, attracting the attention of European clubs.
Red Bull Salzburg and Outbreak in Austria
After choosing to pursue her career at Red Bull Salzburg for 1.5 million euros, Keita had a difficult start in Austria. However, his talent broke out when he scored his first goal against Celtic Glasgow in the European Cup. He won the championship and the Austrian Cup, affirming his place as one of the best players of the 2014-2015 season.
RB Leipzig and Confirmation in the Bundesliga
In June 2016, Keita signed with RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga. His first season was marked by a doubling against Werder Bremen, contributing to the club's second place in the Bundesliga. Keita finished the season with 8 goals and 7 decisive passes in 31 games, confirming his status as a rising star.
Triumph in Liverpool
In 2017, Liverpool secured Keita's transfer for approximately 60 million euros. His time at Anfield was marked by unforgettable moments, including the club's fastest goal in Premier League history. Despite injuries, he became the first Guinean to play in the Champions League final with Liverpool, winning the prestigious trophy in 2019.
However, in May 2023, Liverpool announced Keita's departure once his contract expired, paving the way for a new chapter in his career.
New Adventure at Werder Bremen
On June 9, 2023, Werder Bremen proudly announced the acquisition of Naby Keita as a free player. This transfer marks the beginning of a new phase in this dynamic midfielder's career.
International Career and Brilliance with Guinea
On the international stage, Keita represents Guinea with passion. His first selection in 2014 marked the beginning of a remarkable international career. He became a pillar of the Guinean team, participating in the African Cup of Nations 2015 and continuing to boost the game of his team.
His outstanding performance in the national team saw him score his first goal in 2015, contributing to his nomination as Guinean Player of the Year.
Playing Style and Comparisons
Naby Keita is described as a box-to-box dynamic relay midfielder. His ability to distribute the ball accurately and to regularly score the place in a separate category. Comparisons with the international Portuguese environment Deco highlight its versatile impact on the field.
Towards the 2023 African Cup of Nations
In December 2023, Keita was again selected to represent Guinea at the Africa Cup of Nations 2023, marking another chapter in his commitment to his country.
Naby Keita's career continues to evolve, woven with unshakeable determination and moments of glory. As a dynamic midfielder, his legacy builds on football fields around the world. Guinean fans and football fans are looking forward to the continuation of its exceptional history.
