"I'm leaving as a man, having arrived here as a young boy." | OneFootball

Samson Baidoo's farewell interview

Having arrived in Salzburg in 2018 as a young boy, Samson Baidoo not only progressed through every level of the Red Bull Academy but also established himself as a key player with 71 competitive appearances! Still, it’s part of the Salzburg way that our lads, who reach their next level here, eventually take the step into the wider world of football. For Sammy, that next step is taking the form of a move to RC Lens in one of Europe’s top five leagues. Before the 21-year-old left us, we caught up with him for one final interview to reflect on our time together.

Samson Baidoo's farewell interview

How are you feeling now that the decision to move has been made and a new chapter awaits?

It’s definitely tough leaving your boyhood club – I came here at 14, went through all the academy levels, and eventually made it to the first team. Of course, there’s a bit of sadness, but that’s part of football – at some point, you have to take the next step. Still, it’s emotional when you’ve experienced so much and met so many great people here.

What’s your favourite on-pitch memory from your time in Salzburg?

I’d say my first Champions League match with Salzburg – and to top it off, we beat Benfica. That was one of the best moments of my – still young – football career. Starting that match, with Pavlo beside me, a top defender, and keeping a clean sheet while taking all three points against a team like that – you couldn’t ask for a better Champions League debut.

What’s your favourite memory both on and off the pitch?

I’ve met so many amazing people here! From Oscar Gloukh to Lucas Gourna-Douath, Strahinja Pavlovic and Oumar Solet. The thing is, I got on really well with everyone, which made the time together so enjoyable!

Do you remember your first day in Salzburg? Tell us about the impressions that have stuck with you.

That was when I was first shown around the academy. All I could say was ‘Wow!’ As a young lad, arriving at such a top-class facility was something special. Looking back, you realise even more how great the conditions were. That first moment really stood out, and I was just happy to be able to play for the Red Bull Academy.

How has the young Sammy from back then changed compared to now?

Both personally and as a footballer, I’ve come a long way. But that’s not just down to me – I owe a lot to my family and especially the club, including every coach from the U14s to the first team, who helped me along the way. I’ve gained so much experience from each of them. I’m leaving as a man, having arrived here as a young boy.

How would you describe the training and development in Salzburg? What makes it special for young players?

It really is a proper place to develop – definitely one of the best academies in Europe. Everything is spot on, from the school and food to training and recovery, so you can fully focus on your football. You honestly couldn’t ask for a better place to develop as a young player.

What excites you about your new challenge? Are you nervous about your first move abroad?

First, I want to say thank you again to FC Red Bull Salzburg. I just feel like now is the right time to take this step. I’ve spent my whole career in Austria so far, and I’m looking forward to the challenges of a new league, a new country and a new language. Making that kind of development is what football is all about and now is a great moment to take that step. Of course, there’s a bit of nervousness. Salzburg prepared me well though. I’ve played a lot of matches here and gained Champions League experience. Thanks to Salzburg, I'm not feeling too nervous – but yes, it’s still my first big move abroad, and I’m excited for it.

Speaking of language – you’ve spent a lot of time with Joane Gadou & co. How’s your French coming along?

*laughs* Just a little bit, I just know a few phrases – but it's really not great! If the lads speak slowly, I can understand a bit, but I’m far from fluent. What I do know and understand is mostly thanks to Lucas Gourna-Douath, Joane Gadou, Dorgeles Nene and Moussa Yeo – I picked up a few things from them. I’m grateful for that, but it’ll definitely still be a challenge.

What’s your impression of your new club?

I’ve already met a few players, as well as the coach and sporting director. They all gave me a really warm welcome. I had a good feeling straight away!

One last question: What place will our club hold in your heart going forward?

I’ll always follow FC Red Bull Salzburg’s journey. First of all, I’m keeping my fingers crossed for the Champions League qualifiers – best of luck! There’s nothing better for a footballer than playing in the UEFA Champions League, especially with such a young, talented team like this one. Salzburg will always have a place in my heart – after my time at GAK, this was my childhood and youth club. I’ve got a lot of friends here, so I’ll keep following everything closely, cheering them on, and I just want to say thank you once again!

We want to say thank you too and wish our homegrown talent all the best for the rest of his career! He’ll always be our Sammy from the block. Nearly two years ago, we featured Samson Baidoo in our Salzburger Halbzeit series, where we got to know the Austrian international from a more personal perspective. It’s still worth a read today:

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