Guinean midfielder Naby Keita has completed his move to German side SV Werder Bremen on a free transfer.
The 28-year-old has signed a three-year deal valid until 2026 with the four-time Bundesliga champions.
SVW can confirm the signing of Naby Keïta from Liverpool FC on a free transfer ✍️#werder pic.twitter.com/BGqD8u6XAP
— SV Werder Bremen EN (@werderbremen_en) June 9, 2023
Keita, who recently left Premier League giants Liverpool following the expiration of his five-year contract, returns to Germany, where he initially played for RB Leipzig.
The Guinean was one of four players who left Liverpool after the start of the 2022–23 season. His time at Anfield was riddled with injuries, but over his five-year stay, he made 129 appearances and scored 11 goals.
“I’m really excited for my new challenge here in Bremen,” Keita said. “I was impressed by what the club told me about the setup here and Werder’s style of play.
“The coach gave me a really good feeling and showed how I can help the team. Werder is a special club and I know the Weserstadion from my time with Leipzig. This club and its philosophy will be a good match for me, so this is the right step for my career.”
The Guinea national team captain, who lifted the Premier League, Champions League, FIFA Club World Cup, Emirates FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and FA Community Shield during his time with Liverpool, has always caught the eye of Bremen boss Ole Werner, who heaped praise on their newly signed star.
“Naby is a technically gifted and hard-running midfielder, who will provide us with lots more flexibility,” the 35-year-old tactician said.
“He is dangerous in front of goal and can also provide assists too. He will be an important figure in the centre of the pitch for our squad.
“He [Naby] played in a Champions League final last year and has so much experience on the international stage, which our team will only benefit from. I’m really looking forward to working with him.”
Keita will now turn his attention to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier match between Guinea and Egypt, where he will most likely be going up against former teammate Mohamed Salah.
