Ghana legend Mohammed Polo, speaking exclusively to Footy-Africa, has backed Kamaldeen Sulemana to find his spark again in Italy after sealing a move from Southampton to Serie A side Atalanta.
The 23-year-old winger joined Atalanta in a deal that could rise to €21 million, linking up once more with his former Southampton manager Ivan Juric. The move ends a two-and-a-half-year spell at St Mary’s, where Kamaldeen showed flashes of his talent but struggled to find consistency.
Speaking to Footy-Africa, Polo, one of Ghana’s finest ever players, encouraged Kamaldeen to make the most of the fresh start.
“Kamaldeen is a special player,” Polo said. “He’s quick, sharp, and always looking to take on defenders. I think this move comes at a good time. Atalanta is a club that gives young players room to grow, and I believe it will suit him.”
The former Rennes winger arrived at Southampton on deadline day in February 2023 for a club-record fee of €25.7 million. He made 74 appearances, scoring four goals and assisting seven. Despite glimpses of his quality, his time on the south coast was marked by inconsistency and the team’s eventual relegation from the Premier League.
Polo, who starred for Ghana in the 1978 AFCON-winning team, believes the switch to Serie A could bring out the best in Kamaldeen.
“He just needs to keep his head down and work,” Polo added. “Every player has tough spells, but what matters is how you respond. This is a new challenge for him, and if he stays focused and keeps believing in himself, he can really go far. He has everything, he just needs the right environment, and this might be it.”
Atalanta’s attacking style and European ambitions could provide the ideal stage for Kamaldeen to rediscover his confidence and form.
