PSG loanee Thierno Baldé on Le Havre experience: “You shouldnt cut corners.” | OneFootball

In an interview with Goal, Le Havre right-back Thierno Baldé, who is only loan from Paris Saint-Germain, discussed his experience as he spent the season in Ligue 2, making 30 appearances.

The 19-year-old notably points out the benefits of spending a season in the second year, while other youth players at PSG are said to turn down a loan experience and would rather wait for their chance in the first team.

“[The loan spell] was a good thing. I was born and grew up in the Paris area. You’re in your comfort zone with your friends and family. Going elsewhere allows us to experience something new. It’s a renewal. In Paris, I had settled into a routine. At Le Havre it’s completely different, you have the sea. Even at training, it’s different. I’m someone who’s very reserved, and approaching people can be a bit hard. But at Le Havre, there’s a young squad which made me feel comfortable right away. As soon as all of that fell into place, things worked out.”

“It’s true that it’s hard to go out on loan in Ligue 2, because we’ve grown up in one of the biggest clubs in France and in Europe, and we’re all dreaming of making our first professional appearance with PSG. But you shouldn’t cut corners, and playing in Ligue 2 is an opportunity which allows you to get playing time and show your quality on the pitch. Even if you go out on loan in Ligue 2 or in National, as long as you get game time, that’s the most important thing and you can come back stronger.”