Miguel Ribeiro: "Ibrahima Ba is the best central defender in the Portuguese League"

The failed transfer of Ibrahima Ba to Strasbourg has been a hot topic. Initially, reports suggested the central defender failed his medical examination with the French club. However, the player's agent later offered a different account, claiming the deal's collapse (which would have brought €15 million plus €5 million in bonuses to Famalicão) was due to last-minute changes made by the French side to the African player's contract. Famalicão's president, Miguel Ribeiro, shed light on the entire process late Saturday evening.

"Regarding that transfer, it's quite simple. In the transfer market, both buyers and sellers need to feel absolute confidence. We have that level of confidence in Ibrahima Ba and in our medical department, as well as in this specific transfer. So, we moved forward, but the transfer was aborted by the French club. On one hand, we are very pleased because we still have, in my opinion, the best central defender in the Portuguese League. Ibrahima Ba is a very important player for us. Medical tests? I won't comment extensively on that, as there are confidentiality criteria that must be respected. These would have been record numbers for Famalicão, but the peace of mind we have in not making the deal is the same as if we had. I believe Strasbourg missed an incredible opportunity to sign a great central defender, but they will realize that in the future," stated the president of the Minho SAD, on the sidelines of the squad's presentation to fans in Vila Nova.

The Famalicão leader also expressed confidence in further success for the new season: "Expectations are high; we aim to continue Famalicão's growth. This start was more turbulent than we anticipated, indeed, because on the tenth day, the coach who was here left, and another came in, in whom we place immense expectations and who has our absolute trust."

Miguel Ribeiro also addressed Gustavo Sá's situation, leaving all options open. "We are prepared, just as we were for the coach's departure. It's somewhat the price to pay for the quality and age of the players," the executive concluded.