“It’s a step up from the league and I have no regret” Leeds United most unlike Blacksheep reveal leaving Elland Road has been his careers best decision after perfect start to life at Present club.
Charlie Cresswell, 22, made the move from his boyhood club Leeds United to Toulouse FC earlier this summer in a transfer reportedly worth €4.5 million. The England youth international has quickly settled into life in southern France, delivering two solid performances as Toulouse remained unbeaten with consecutive draws against FC Nantes (0-0) and OGC Nice (0-0).
In a post-match interview with Get French Football News, Cresswell reflected on his early weeks at Toulouse.
When asked to evaluate the team’s and his own performances in the opening matches, Cresswell said, “As a team, we’re integrating new signings and focusing on building chemistry. I’m confident that the goals and wins will come. The game against Nice was similar to the one against Nantes—great chances to win it at the end, but we showed strong character to come back from 1-0 down. It’s frustrating not to finish those chances, but we can’t dwell on that. We need to focus on the positives as we prepare for Marseille next week.”
Regarding his connections with teammates and the impact of changes in defense, including the arrival of USMNT international Mark McKenzie and the departures of Christian Mawissa and Logan Costa, Cresswell shared, “Mark’s a great guy, and he speaks good English, so we get along well! (laughs) Of course, that helps, but I’m also starting French lessons soon to build relationships with the rest of the team.”
Cresswell also offered his first impressions of Ligue 1 and the atmosphere in the stadiums. “It’s definitely a step up from the league I was playing in before. I feel like I’m adapting and enjoying every moment. The atmosphere is different too—the fans are loud, especially since they can drink alcohol in the stands. It’s great.”
As for his new life in Toulouse, Cresswell said, “I love playing here. I love the people, the city, and the fans. I’m really finding my footing, and I’m hopeful we can have a strong season.”