Théo Leoni finds color with Reims. But despite his departure in complicated circumstances, he still keeps an eye on Anderlecht.
Last summer, Théo Leoni left Anderlecht after 14 years in Mauve to embark on a new chapter in Reims. “The objective was simple: to get playing time back and have fun again on the pitch. Here, I have the confidence of the staff and the coach, and for a player, that is fundamental. When you feel supported, you can fully express yourself. I keep playing, I feel better and better physically and mentally,” he explains to RTL.
Despite the phone call from the Union, he did not hesitate to sign in Champagne: “The club contacted Anderlecht, then I spoke with the management. It happened quickly. I liked their vision and their sporting project.
In his element
And it’s paying off: if Reims is the last Ligue 2 team still in contention in the Coupe de France, it’s largely thanks to Leoni, who scored a double against Le Mans in the round of 16. Despite its rebirth, it has not forgotten Anderlecht.
“I owe them a lot. Jean Kindermans came to pick me up in U13. All my coaches at the training center believed in me. Robin Veldman launched me into the first team, Brian Riemer trusted me. I experienced everything there: ball boy in the Champions League, supporter in the stands, then player who scored. It remains anchored in me,” he smiles.
Also read… “I wanted to keep principles”: Théo Leoni tells how he refused the Union last summer›
Recently, he again followed Sporting’s match at Antwerp: “I know the club well, I know that in moments when everyone doubts, certain players raise their level. I had the feeling that they were going to do something. After ten minutes, I was sure that it was their match. The final against Union at the King Baudouin stadium will be a very great moment to experience.”
