The Journey of Mamady Cissé and Support in Adapting in Brazil
Guinean youth arrived at the club without speaking Portuguese and now seeks new goals
The arrival of young Mamady Cissé in Brazil involved an intense adaptation process closely monitored by Atlético‑MG, the club where the athlete plays. Born in Guinea, the midfielder set foot in the country without speaking Portuguese, relying on a structured support network of translators, teammates and dedicated departments within the institution.
Arrival at Confins Airport
Mamady Cissé landed at Confins Airport on May 8, 2025. The youngster traveled for about 36 hours with only a carry‑on bag and a half‑lost suitcase, and was greeted by French translator and teacher Benjamin Lelaidier and staff from the club’s youth categories.
Routine support and language learning
Without knowing a word of Portuguese, Cissé received daily assistance during his first months. Translator Lelaidier stayed close to the player to help with basic tasks, trips to training and Portuguese lessons. Later, the club hired private teachers and created daily games to encourage language mastery.
Support from teammates
In the under‑20 squad, the group worked to integrate Cissé into life off the pitch. Midfielder Pedrinho became his closest companion, taking him to explore Belo Horizonte – shopping malls, the Pampulha Lagoon and his own family’s house for feijoada and video games.
The role of Player Care and social assistance
The athlete’s support includes social assistance and the Player Care department, which helps with adaptation, family support and housing. When Cissé decided to live alone after staying at the Cidade do Galo, these departments assisted in finding an apartment and provided practical training on household organization and cooking.
On‑field performance and yellow cards
Cissé played 21 matches, scored one goal and signed a contract valid until 2030, while also attracting interest from European clubs. In the 2026 season, the player appeared in the team’s warning rankings, accumulating three yellow cards over 26 matches that year.
With information from GE, Terra.
Source: ge, Terra