Moukoko: The Valenciennes Years Made Me

Thierry Moukoko sits in a quiet café near the Stade du Hainaut, the ground where he spent the heart of his career. The Cameroonian is out of the game now, but the memories are vivid. He speaks with the same energy he once brought to the midfield, his voice rising when he talks about Valenciennes.

Q: Thierry, you played for six clubs in over twenty years. Where does it all start?

A: It starts in Troyes, with the academy and then the first team. I was a kid from Cameroon living a dream. 104 games for ESTAC, three goals. I learned the professional life there, the discipline. It wasn't flashy, but it made me.

Q: Then came Valenciennes. 218 games, 13 goals. What made it special?

A: Valenciennes is my home. The crowd, the derbies, the fight. We weren't the richest club, but we had soul. I gave everything for that shirt. The people still stop me in the street here. They remember the tackles, the runs, the commitment. That's worth more than any trophy.

Q: You left in 2054/55 for Basel. Was it about ambition?

A: It was about a new challenge. I wanted to test myself in Europe. And I won the Swiss Super League in 2057/58. That's a beautiful memory. But my heart was always in Valenciennes.

Q: You had 150 caps for Cameroon. What did the national team mean to you?

A: Everything. To represent your country that many times is an honour I can't describe. I scored eight goals, but it was about the brotherhood. We fought for each other.

Q: Your last stop was Krasnodar. How do you look back on those years?

A: A different world, but a good one. 75 games, five goals. I was older, using my experience. It was a fitting end, though my body was telling me it was time.

Q: Why did you step away from the game after 2061/62?

A: I wanted to go out on my own terms. No injuries forcing me, no decline. I felt I had given all I had. And I wanted to spend time with my family, to see life beyond football.

Q: Do you see yourself returning, maybe as a coach?

A: Never say never. But right now, I'm enjoying the quiet. The game gave me everything, but I don't miss the pressure. I watch Valenciennes when I can. They're doing well, and that makes me happy.

Q: What advice would you give to young players coming through at Valenciennes?

A: Play for the badge, not for the money. The fans here will love you forever if you give your all. And listen to your body. It's a long road.

Q: One last thing. You scored a few important goals in derbies. Any favourite?

A: The 3-0 at Boulogne just before Christmas brought back memories. I wasn't there, but I felt it. Derbies are what you live for. The noise, the tension. I miss that.

Q: Thank you, Thierry. Any final words for the supporters?

A: Merci, Valenciennes. You made me the man I am today. I'll never forget you.