Parma, 30 January 2026 – Comments from forward Nesta Elphege, given during his presentation at the “Gianfranco Bellè” press room at Ennio Tardini Stadium, attended by CEO Federico Cherubini and Director of Football Alessandro Pettinà.

PARMA, A CLUB WITH A GREAT HISTORY

“I’m very happy to be here at Parma, a club with a rich history. I want to thank the Club, the staff, and my teammates for the warm welcome they’ve given me. At the start of the January transfer window, my agent told me that Parma was interested as well as some other clubs. But as soon as I heard Parma I was certain about where I wanted to be, I was immediately excited about the idea and the opportunity to play here, in Serie A, where there are so many high-level teams. I didn’t have any particular expectations for this transfer window, nor did I expect any special offers. I had been performing well since the start of the season, so it was possible there could be some inquiries, but nothing in particular. When my agent mentioned Parma’s interest and the chance to play in Serie A, I was immediately enthusiastic and had no doubts. I’m happy to be here.”

MY NAME, BETWEEN ALESSANDRO NESTA AND BOB MARLEY

“Alessandro Nesta? Of course I know him! When I was little, I actually thought I was named after him without asking my parents. I had always been interested in him, who doesn’t know him, playing in defence with Paolo Maldini? Later, when I asked my parents if I was actually named after Alessandro Nesta, it turned out my dad, who is a big Bob Marley fan, chose my name. My second name, ‘Nesta,’ actually comes from Bob Marley. That’s how I learned where I get my name from.”

A PHYSICAL STRIKER

“I’m a forward, and one of my main qualities is physicality. I’m a strong, robust striker. Technically, I think I’m skilled at holding the ball, pushing the team forward, pressing, winning aerial duels, and aerial play in general. A reference striker? As an inspiration, there’s no single player. Given my Cameroonian roots, I have to mention Samuel Eto’o, especially when I was younger. In terms of current players, I would say Haaland, Lewandowski, and Kane, very physical strikers with traits similar to mine. I don’t have one favourite. I try to take something from each of them. About Mateo Pellegrino? I’ve seen some games and a lot of videos. He’s a very good player and striker. I don’t see myself necessarily as his alternative. In the past, I’ve played in different systems, and my qualities include the ability to adapt to various situations and tactical setups. I’ve played alongside players with physical traits and roles similar to mine, but also with different profiles. I don’t see myself as an alternative to him.”

LIGUE 2, A HIGH LEVEL

“Overall, the level in Ligue 2 is very high. There are lots of young players with serious potential who are quick and skilled. In general, it's a demanding league and balanced with more experienced players.”