Once Clinton Mola knew of Bristol Rovers’ interest, the decision was easy.
The defender has joined the Gas from fellow EFL League One side Reading, penning a three-year contract with the option of a further season, and is already enjoying life as a Rovers player.
It has been clear to the 23-year-old, from the first conversation with manager Matt Taylor and Director of Football George Friend, that the Club has high aspirations. It is an exciting project to be a part of, and a journey Mola cannot wait to begin.
“Joining Bristol Rovers is an exciting opportunity for me,” the defender said. “When I heard the Club was in for me, I was very interested. The Club has made me feel very wanted and that was a big part in my decision to join Rovers. I’m very happy to be here and I’m looking forward to getting going.
“I’ve spoken to the manager and I’ve spoken to George and I’ve gotten a real sense of how ambitious this Club is. They’ve both been very detailed about the project here and how they see Bristol Rovers progressing. It is exciting to hear and I’m ready to be a part of this project.
“With the ambition that comes from the manager, the coaching staff, and from above too, this is a very positive Club to be at. When you have a Chairman and a Board of Directors who are ambitious, that trickles down in the right way through the entire Club. For me, that’s one of the most positive things.”
While still only in his early 20s, Mola has enjoyed some incredible experiences in his career so far.
Starting out at the Chelsea Academy, Mola would move to Germany and join VfB Stuttgart, helping the side return to the Bundesliga at the first attempt.
Spells with Blackburn Rovers and, most recently, Reading have followed. The defender is simply content with where he is so far, though. Mola knows he can be even better.
“This is my fifth year of being a professional footballer so I’ve got some experience, but I’m also still young and I feel like I’ve got so much further that I can go,” he continued. “I think being abroad for a while has really helped in my development, and now I’m ready for that next step in my journey. This feels like the right next step and I’m excited to get going with Bristol Rovers.
“The manager has told me he wants me to be robust, help the defence, and come in and help the team in any way I can. When I can get on the ball, I can carry the ball forward and help the team win games.”
With the ink dry on his contract with the Pirates, Mola is now fully focused on making the best possible impression on his teammates, the manager, the coaches and the supporters.
The 23-year-old is already eager for his bow at The Memorial Stadium in the blue-and-white quarters and to meet the fans for the first time.
He added: “I’ve played at The Mem before. It’s a nice stadium, with an incredible group of home supporters. They bring the place to life and I’m excited to walk out there as a Rovers player at the start of the season. I’m ready to meet the fans and show them what I can do.
“What can they expect from me? I’m a versatile defender and I’m very passionate. I think I’m strong too and I will try to carry the ball up the field and help the team as much as I can. I try to be vocal on and off the pitch too.
“Pre-season is an important time of the season, arguably the most important. We have to get our work done, do the running, put in the graft, and be in the best shape possible for when the league campaign starts.”
