Emanuel Aïbou gave his first interview on Apollon’s official website.

The Austrian center back talks about what led him to the Limassol-based team, his conversation with Hernán Lozada, the experiences he gained from playing in top European leagues, and the goals he has set for himself while wearing the blue-and-white jersey.

Here’s the interview in full

Welcome to Apollon. How do you feel about starting a new chapter in your career?

“Thank you very much for the welcome. I’m very happy to be here. I was looking forward to the transfer being finalized, and now that everything is official, I’m excited about this new chapter. I’m looking forward to meeting my teammates, the coaching staff, everyone at the club, and of course the team’s fans.”

You’ve played in Austria, Italy, and England. Looking back, how do you think each stop shaped your soccer career?

“Every transfer was an important step for me. I started with a smaller club in Austria and then transferred to Rapid Vienna, where I had a very good season. That gave me the opportunity to play in Serie A with Cremonese. I then went on loan to Birmingham because I’d always wanted to experience English soccer. It was a difficult year with many changes, but experiences like that make you stronger. Afterward, I transferred to Sturm Graz, played in the UEFA Champions League, and won another league title. Each stop along the way offered me different experiences and helped me grow both as a soccer player and as a person.”

What made you choose Apollon?

“I felt that Apollon was the best choice for me overall. It’s a great club with high aspirations, and the fact that we’ll have the opportunity to compete in Europe again played a major role in my decision. I also had a very good conversation with the coach. He explained his philosophy to me, the way he wants the team to play, and the role he sees for me. That conversation left me with very positive feelings. At the same time, life in Cyprus is wonderful, and from my very first interactions with the club’s staff, I realized that this was the right environment for me.”

You mentioned your conversation with the coach. What made the biggest impression on you?

“He clearly explained his philosophy and the way he wants the team to play—with dominant soccer and taking the initiative on the field. At the same time, he explained how he believes I can help the team. For me, it’s always very important to have good communication and a good relationship with the coach. After our conversation, I felt that this was the right choice.”

Did you talk to anyone before making your decision?

“Yes. Through a mutual acquaintance, I got in touch with Ivan Ljubic, who spoke very highly of the club, the coach, the team, and life in Cyprus. It was very helpful to hear the opinion of someone who had already had that experience.”

How would you describe yourself as a soccer player?

“I’d say I’m a defender who’s aggressive in one-on-one situations and likes to win those individual battles. My top priority is always to defend properly and help the team keep a clean sheet. At the same time, I like to have the ball at my feet, be involved in building up play, and constantly communicate with my teammates. “As a center back, you see the whole field in front of you and can better organize the team.”

You’ve also played as a right-back. How comfortable are you in different roles?

“My natural position is in the center of the defense, and that’s where I feel best. However, if necessary, I can also play as a right fullback.”

How are you feeling right now in terms of your fitness?

“I feel good, although I’m not quite at my peak fitness yet, since I haven’t always been able to participate in the full training program with my previous team recently. I’m working every day to reach my best form, and I want to help the team as soon as possible. Beyond that, the decision is up to the coaching staff.”

Apollon is returning to European competition. How important is that to you?

“It’s very important, but I believe we shouldn’t be satisfied just with participating in the qualifiers. Our goal must be to qualify for the League Phase of the UEFA Conference League. The club and its fans deserve to experience those big European nights again, and that’s what we’re working toward every day. I believe we have a quality team, with experienced players, and everyone can contribute to achieving this goal.”

You’ve played in the UEFA Champions League and other European competitions. How can that experience help the team?

“Champions League matches offer valuable experiences because you face the world’s top teams. I want to share these experiences with the team, mainly through communication and effectively managing difficult moments. Nevertheless, I believe we have a very talented squad, and everyone can contribute in their own way.”

What are your personal goals?

“First and foremost, I want to adapt as quickly as possible, get to know my teammates better, and build good chemistry with the team. I want to help with my soccer skills, but also with my experience, both on and off the field. I hope we have a successful season in the league and achieve our goals in Europe as well.”

You’ve already seen footage of the Apollon fans. What’s your message to them?

“I can’t wait to meet them in person. I’ve already heard a lot of positive things about the fans, and I know how passionate they are about the team. I, too, am a passionate soccer player. I always give 100%, I fight for the crest, and I never shy away from a challenge. I hope we’ll experience many wonderful and successful moments together. I look forward to seeing you soon at “Alphamega Stadium.”