Stephane Sessegnon reflects on rise to Premier League football from humble roots in Benin

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Sunderland midfielder Stephane Sessegnon has been reflecting on his rise from his childhood in Benin to Premier League football.

The winger – who made the £6 million move from Paris St Germain in January – admits he is extremely fortunate to be playing at the highest level in football.

The 27-year-old grew up in a small village 15 miles outside the capital of the African country.

He told Sunderland’s official website: “I was lucky enough to have a family that didn’t earn millions of pounds but could at least provide for itself.

“Ever since I was very little I have played football.

“There’s a moment when you are in Africa and when you want to play football, your parents don’t necessarily agree and you go to school.

“I spoke with my parents and I told them I wanted to play football and we came to an understanding.

“Afterwards, I started playing everywhere I could in different areas; then I had the chance to play for Benin and to come to France.”

The winger made his debut for the national side aged 20 and has been a regular fixture in ever since.

His move from the Benin Premier League was complex but the chance to move to France finally arrived, the player was delighted.

“I tried to go earlier on but it was really complicated – I was in Africa and it wasn’t necessarily easy to come to France,” Sessegnon added.

“I seized the chance when I could, and I was lucky enough to be welcomed by people who looked after me straight away and gave me the opportunity to express myself. 

“Then I started from the bottom. I started at a Division Two club [Creteil] and tried to make my way up from there. Today I’m happy with the path I have taken.”

Sessegnon said his move to Wearside was made easier by the fact many of manager Steve Bruce’s players spoke French, allowing him to settle into life at the Stadium of Light far easier.

“I was lucky to find a team with players who had already played in the French League and players who I had played against several times in qualifying matches,” he admitted.

“It made things easier and allowed me to fit in, as I don’t speak English that well – they helped me as they speak a bit of French.

“The team have made me feel good about being here.”