Tout Puissant Mazembe

He appeared both serene and reserved in press conference, this Monday, January 09, just after his daily session of muscle building at the medical-sports center of the stadium in Kamalondo. For a good quarter of an hour, Trésor MPUTU answered the questions of the journalists on his physical condition, his new ambitions and what the TPM can expect from him. Extracts:

What did you feel when the news of your qualification came in?

I did not organize any celebration for it. Anyway, it was a news that made me happy and I did not know how to express the joy I had after spending several days unemployed but paid. The ideal was to meditate quietly alongside my family. My thoughts at this moment are directed towards those who waited impatiently for me to resume and compete in official competitions. Right now, it's up to me not to disappoint them once on the pitch.

Will it be the same Trésor we knew before joining Kabuscorp?

Football is my profession. I am like a soldier in his barracks waiting for mission orders to attack (laugh). I cannot promise you in what state of mind I will be in my first game. To get back to the good level I had before this deal with Kabuscorp, it takes a lot of work. Talent will not be enough to become Trésor you once knew. Here is my rule: it is necessary to combine the physical condition, the individual and collective technique, and to comply with the coach' style of play in order to reach the summits. As far as I'm concerned, I still need time to compete with the TPM. I want to get there on one condition, that I'm only disciplined in everything I do.

Can you tell us about your choice to go and get lost yourself in Angola?

The choice to go to Angola was not compulsory, I did it without deepening twists and turns, and then I realized that it was inopportune to leave the TPM. In the eyes of my president Moïse KATUMBI, I disappointed him because he had other European proposals to make me. I assume this bad choice and promise not to risk repeating the same mistakes.

What is the difference between the today TPM and the one you knew before going?

The TPM remains the same although coaches change. The talented players are there, the team wins trophies. With all the coaches arriving, the TPM is still champion of Africa. The only difference lies in the game philosophy that coaches bring. I take the example of Diego GARZITTO who wanted our game to go quickly, to project ourselves forward right after the recovery of the ball. Put pressure on the opponent from start to finish. LAMINE wanted the solidity of the team, not to concede for example and score as soon as we have the opportunity. Each coach imposes his philosophy of play as did Hubert VELUD who just left. The TPM remains the same because it continues to be very big one in Africa.

What lessons do you learn from this situation?

It was a big mistake to go to Kabuscorp, the consequences were very heavy on my career. I have just spent almost two years without effectively competing in an official competition. Many people have advised me and helped me during this difficult time, and I would like to thank them. I remember today that I must not be impulsive on a pitch and in front of any situation of life, I must also spare my entourage for example. All these good advice will help me grow still and move forward. I thank everyone who wants me to bounce back. They will be very happy to see me play well, win games and titles in TPM.

What about your European dream?

On the physical plane, I took only 2 extra pounds. I just lack rhythm in the game. Although not affiliated, I trained regularly to keep fit to be competitive when the time comes. Despite my thirty-one years, I still have the mind, strength and talent to keep me at the highest level.

Speaking of the European dream, today it no longer depends on Trésor MPUTU. I can no longer unilaterally make a decision to leave TPM. Since my arrival in Lubumbashi, it was the Chairman Moïse KATUMBI who had oriented me in my career. Only once, I did not listen to him by deciding to go to Kabuscorp... It's a lesson! Beyond that, he has paid me my salary since my return, I have regularly received bonuses and benefits like others players. It happened as if I had not trampled his refusal to transfer me to Angola. The President has a great heart, he has forgiven me, and in all sincerity I have a moral obligation to honor my commitment with him.

Before thinking of any departure from the TPM, note that I have a great debt to President Moïse and our many supporters. They supported me and I do not think about Europe today. Let me get back to work to give titles to the TPM. To leave very quickly would be a betrayal.

I take this opportunity to solemnly apologize before all the fans. In clear words, I do not know if I will leave TPM after all what I went through. Only God knows.

How about your return to the national team?

I am a Congolese, if the coach summons me I will not hesitate a minute to go and play for my country. On this occasion, I convey this message to my friends who will be in Gabon and the technical staff. They have the support of Trésor MPUTU and all the Congolese.