E249: Kolo Toure
Kolo Touré: The Forgotten Hero Of Arsenal, Man City & Liverpool (E249)
Step into the mind of a Premier League icon, in a conversation exploring self doubt, gaining respect, and coping with toxicity.
Kolo Touré, a stalwart of the Premier League, is not just a football player but a symbol of resilience and determination. With a career spanning top clubs including Arsenal, Manchester City, and Liverpool, Toure's name is synonymous with grit, leadership, and unwavering commitment on the pitch.
In this episode, Kolo Touré joins Jake and Damian for a conversation blending reflection and insider insights into his football journey. From meeting Arsène Wenger for the first time, to reflecting on the “invincibles” era at Arsenal, Kolo shares insights into how one of the league’s most legendary teams was built.
Transitioning to Manchester City, he discusses the struggle of instilling a winning mentality at a new club. Despite setbacks, including a suspension for a substance abuse accusation, Kolo highlights how he persevered; returning alongside his brother Yaya to win the Premier League in dramatic fashion in 2012.
Kolo also discusses how when his career moved onto Liverpool, he faced new pressures and expectations. He shares how he embraced the challenge, and how eager he was to prove himself to the fans and his new team.
This episode encapsulates Kolo's remarkable journey; from exhilarating moments within some of the country’s most established clubs, to inspiring encounters with Arsène Wenger, and his biggest personal challenges and triumphs.