Borna Sosa has opened up about the dramatic events that nearly stopped his move from Crystal Palace to Cologne on transfer deadline day.
The Croatian defender joined the German side on loan until the end of the season, but the deal was only completed with three minutes remaining before the window closed.
Cologne had been left sweating after the computer screen used to upload the necessary documents froze. The transfer eventually went through, but Sosa faced another problem once the deal was confirmed.
Sosa feared he could not return to England
Speaking to Cologne’s official website, as quoted by Sport Witness, Sosa revealed that he suddenly discovered he had a flight to catch just two hours later.
“I checked my messages and suddenly saw a notification telling me I had a flight in two hours,” he explained.
“I didn’t have any of my things with me and wouldn’t have made it home in time.”
Sosa had only the essentials with him and did not even have his passport. He still made his way to the airport and was eventually allowed to fly after showing a photograph of the document.
“I showed a photo of my passport, and fortunately, that was enough,” he said.
“I was nervous – not just because of the time, but also because I wouldn’t have been able to get back into England. You aren’t allowed to enter the country without your passport.”
The defender admitted he was relieved once everything was settled.
“I was really happy it worked out. I’m very glad to be in Cologne now.”
Sosa now has the chance to rebuild his career in Germany after struggling to establish himself at Crystal Palace. He made 18 appearances last season and was out of Pierre Sage’s plans this campaign before making the move.
