Rwanda international Jean Claude Iranzi has revealed that he is adapting well to life at his new club MFK Topvar Topoľčany of Slovakia, saying he’s already “feeling good” in the new environment. The 25-year old left-footed midfielder signed for the Slovakian third tier side from APR FC last month, along with compatriots; 19-years old midfielder Rachid Kalisa (from Police FC) and right-back Fitina Ombalenga, 21 (SC Kiyovu). The trio signed an 18-month contract. They reached in Slovakia last week and have since linked up with their new teammates for pre-season training ahead of the 2016/17 season, which starts next month. At MFK Topvar Topoľčany, they join former Gor Mahia playmaker Rama Salim. “I feel good that finally I am realising my childhood dream to play in Europe. It’s a wonderful opportunity to join my new team and hopefully everything will go well, especially in the first few weeks when we have to learn the language and get used to the new environment,” Iranzi told Times Sport in an email. He added, “The first week has been good so far, and in any case, I came here to prove myself that I can play at a higher level, so this is an opportunity I need to grab with both hands. I think it’s a really good chance to show what I can do and hopefully I will be given a chance.” Iranzi began his career with Esperance youth team in 2000 before joining SC Kiyovu in 2004. Four years later, he was sold to APR in a big-money move. He had been an influential player for the military side and a key figure in the national team setup, winning seven league titles, five Peace Cups and one CECAFA Kagame Club Championship (in 2010) with APR. Iranzi was part of the Rwanda U-20 team that competed in the 2009 African U-20 Youth Championship in Rwanda, alongside the likes of Eric ‘Bakame’ Ndayishimiye, Haruna Niyonzima, Jean Baptiste Mugiraneza and Elias ‘Baby’ Uzamukundo. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
