Bernadette Amani is the new force in FC Bayern Women's defensive midfield and brings an impressive story with her to Munich. In an interview with fcbayern.com, the Ivory Coast captain talks about her first impressions at Bayern, formative childhood memories of legendary Champions League evenings, her rocky road through the Spanish leagues, and the great importance of football in her home country. With a lot of passion, family support, and a clear vision for the future, Amani wants to leave her mark in Munich, not only in terms of sport but also as a person. And inspire the fans with her passion.
Interview with Bernadette Amani
Servus, Amani! What are your first impressions of Bayern, both of the team and of your first few days here at the training camp?
Bernadette Amani: “Thank you very much! Even though I've only been here a short time, I already feel really comfortable. The level of training is incredibly high, and you immediately feel that you're part of a Champions League team. I'm really enjoying being here. I'm doing my best to settle in quickly, and so far it's going really well.”
When I was a child, I remember the legendary 4-0 win against Barcelona in 2013, which was a huge event for us in Ivory Coast too. Many people talked about that game at the time, and it made a big impression on me too.
Bernadette Amani on her first memories of Bayern
When did you first hear about Bayern? And what is your earliest memory of the club?
“When I was a child, I remember the legendary 4-0 win against Barcelona in 2013, which was a huge event for us in Ivory Coast too. Many people talked about that game at the time, and it made a big impression on me too. Since then, the club has always been on my mind. I've followed the club and its success. Being here now is of course even better.”
How did you feel when you found out that Bayern wanted to sign you?
“I was incredibly proud and happy. I never would have dreamed of it. It's truly a great honour to be approached by such a renowned club. I knew right away that this was a great opportunity for my development, one that I wanted to seize.”
Let's look back at your beginnings. How did you get into football?
“I used to play with my brothers and cousins when I was a child. I was the only girl in the family, but that never bothered me. On the contrary, it actually motivated me even more to assert myself and do my best. That time awakened my love for football and shaped me. I've stuck with it ever since.”
You're not the only one in the family who has made it as a professional.
“Yes, that's right. My brother Lazare Amani is also a professional. He currently plays in Greece for AE Kifisias, but previously played in Belgium for Charleroi, Union Saint-Gilloise and Standard Liège. Like me, he plays in midfield, albeit a little further forward. In 2024, he won the Africa Cup of Nations with the national team.”
📸 Die schönsten Bilder von Bernadette Amanis ersten Einheiten mit den FCB-Frauen in Spanien:
You’ve enjoyed an impressive rise in recent years. You’ve worked your way up step by step from the Spanish third division. In the 2023/24 season, you played in the top flight for the first time. How did you experience this journey?
“I think my career so far has been anything but ordinary. I'm already 28 now. I started my career in the Spanish third division and at the time I would have never dared to dream that one day I would play in the first division, let alone for a Champions League team. However, every stage, every challenge and every experience of the last few years has shaped me and helped me grow. The road has often been rocky, but it's precisely those moments that have made me stronger. I'm very grateful for everything I've been able to experience and, of course, for the support I've received along the way.”
What type of player can Bayern fans expect with you?
“Actually, I don't particularly like talking about myself. So far, my teammates and coaches have mainly praised my defensive qualities and my ball skills. I’m a player who’s always fully committed to the team and gives her all in every situation. I’d say that my strengths lie mainly in defence and building up play.”
I’m a player who’s always fully committed to the team and gives her all in every situation. I’d say that my strengths lie mainly in defence and building up play.
Bernadette Amani on her style of play
You’ve already played against numerous top players in the Spanish league. Which opponent has challenged you the most so far?
“There are so many outstanding players that I’ve had the privilege of competing against. For example, Aitana Bonmatí, Alexia Putellas, Linda Caicedo and Caroline Weir. Each of them has their own unique qualities and presents a special challenge. But that's also what makes it so exciting, having to adapt and prepare for each opponent again and again. These kinds of duels are always special and help you develop. I'm particularly looking forward to the Champions League matches, when we'll be up against the best teams and top players in Europe.”
Turning to the national team. You’re captain of the Ivory Coast. How important is football in your home country?
“People are crazy about football, especially since the days of great players like Didier Drogba and Yaya Touré. Women's football has also developed strongly in recent years. This is mainly due to the new perspective and commitment of our association president, who specifically promotes women's football. Today, more and more initiatives are being launched to inspire girls and women. I very much hope that this development will continue. Football is really more than just a sport for Ivorians. It connects people and is an important part of our culture.”
🇨🇮©️ Bernadette Amani gets to lead her country as captain of the Ivory Coast:
What do you do when you're not on the football pitch? What are your hobbies?
“In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family. I also love to cook, although I have to admit that I'm not the best cook. I like to make traditional sauces from my home country. It always reminds me of home and makes me feel at home, no matter where I am.”
Is there a motto that has guided you throughout your life?
“For me, it's not so much a specific voice or a single motto, but rather three words that have always guided me: perseverance, ambition and trust. These values give me strength and direction, both on the pitch and in life.”
Finally, what message would you like to give the fans at the start of your time at Bayern?
“I hope that the fans will get to know me better and better over time. I'm really looking forward to the first home games, spending time together and giving my all for the club. It's a great honour for me to wear the Bayern shirt, and I will always play with all my heart and passion.”
Thanks for talking to us, Amani!
“It was my pleasure.”
🇪🇸 Bayern kicked off their 2026 winter training camp in Spain:
ℹ️ Bernadette Amani joined Bayern last week:
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