After long years of training, Cameroon’s Kalle Sone has finally won a professional status with Dutch side Vitesse Arnhem. At 20, Kalle thinks much is still to come from him. On his Christmas break, he talked to Ashu Manfred in Kumba about his career and more.
How did you find yourself in the Netherlands?
I joined Vitesse Arnhem in 1997, but was too young to play in the first team. So they put me in their youth side. That was part of my training to acquire maturity, a status I finally gained last year.
What are the major differences between African and European football?
The differences narrow down to infrastructure. In Europe, the infrastructures are modern and up-to-date to enable the player produce his best.
In Europe also the club handles other matters concerning the player like accommodation, leaving the player enough time to concentrate on the job. We in Cameroon need to learn some of those aspects of management.
I must add that the European coaches are also very experienced.
Does your job provide you enough financial satisfaction?
Though taxes are comparatively high, I think after paying my taxes, I’m OK with what is left. Have you ever suffered from racism?
I’m hearing it for the first time. Racism does not exist in Dutch football. The Netherlands is an open and friendly country. Don’t forget that UFFA sanctions await any perpetrators of racism in football.
How much do you know about the Indomitable Lions?
I have been following the progress of the team. I watched their test games in Germany prior to the World Cup last year. I have been impressed with the tendency to draft in younger players into the squad.
What are the don’ts of a good professional player?
It depends on the body composition of each player. I would not say there are don’ts. It happens that I don’t consume alcohol, not because I’m a footballer. Some players drink heavily, keep long hours out, but still perform well.
So it’s a matter of knowing yourself and the limits of your choices.
In which clubs did you play for before leaving the country?
I was with Golden Soap Kumba when they played in division three and then moved into division two.
I went to the Brasseries football school and played with Victoria United when they were in second division, before I left.
