Franck Kessie says he was happiest playing for Barcelona

Ivory Coast captain Franck Kessie reflected that his single season at Barcelona was the happiest of his career, noting he scored the winning goal in a league‑deciding Clasico against Real Madrid under manager Xavi Hernandez.

He arrived at Barcelona as a free transfer, joining at a complicated moment for the club and bringing physical power and midfield experience from his previous stint at AC Milan.

Barcelona’s midfield was crowded and the technical demands of the side required adaptation, meaning Kessie was not always an undisputed starter but still produced notable moments in a Blaugrana jersey.

Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Kessie said, “I speak with Xavi still now. I also talk with him about the great players who are here now. He has won two titles with Barcelona (I think), and I get along very well with him.”

His most memorable on‑field contribution was the decisive goal in the league‑deciding Clasico, a strike that hurt Real Madrid and secured a crucial win for Barcelona.

Kessie’s departure after one year made sense financially and sportingly; Barcelona needed room, his market value was high, and his role was not central enough to block a move.

He concluded, “For me, whether it was a year, six months, or four days, I was happiest playing here,” underscoring the lasting affection he holds for the Catalan club despite the brief spell.