Scott Bitsindou came through the ranks with Belgian World Cup stars Leander Dendoncker and Youri Tielemans at Anderlecht.
Bitsindou spent 13 years at the youth academy of Belgian giants Anderlecht, alongside Aston Villa star Dendoncker and Leicester City’s Tielemans.
Their careers have taken different paths since then and Bitsindou is now in Scotland – via Switzerland and Serbia.
But he hasn’t given up on his dream of joining them on football’s biggest stage.
A current Congo international, Bitsindou’s hopes of reaching the World Cup in 2026 have been bolstered by the fact Africa could have up to FIVE additional spaces at a 48-team tournament.
And Bitsindou hopes to turn on the style at Gayfield and make his mark at parent club Livingston before taking on the world’s best.
“I think Congo have a very good chance of making it to the World Cup next time,” said Bitsindou.
“We have a very good group of players who are young and very hungry to succeed.
“Hopefully, I can be part of that group going forward and help them get to a World Cup.
“I’ve played twice for Congo against Senegal and Namibia last year and I want to play as many international games as I can. I’m 26 and still have time.
“I was at Anderlecht for a long time and I’ve seen many talented players such as Tielemans and Dendoncker and I never give up on my dreams.
“But first I want to do it in Scotland for Arbroath and Livingston.”
Scott Bitsindou cites ‘togetherness’ at Arbroath
Bitsindou is settling in well to life at Arbroath after recovering from injury.
He set-up Bobby Linn for the clinching second strike in last week’s 2-0 Scottish Cup win at Fraserburgh.
And he admits he already feels at home at Gayfield under the guidance of Lichties boss Dick Campbell.
“I love playing for Dick Campbell,” added Bitsindou. “I learned English when I was at Anderlecht and used it again when I played in Switzerland.
“Dick’s English is a bit different but I still understand him!
📽️ @FraserburghFC v @ArbroathFC
Arbroath left Fraserburgh with a 2-0 victory, and sealed their place in tomorrow evening's Fourth Round draw. #ScottishCup pic.twitter.com/UNSXHyZCpL
— Scottish Cup (@ScottishCup) November 27, 2022
“Football is a universal language and when Dick talks about it he does it with passion.
“He loves football and both he and his twin Ian have made me feel really welcome.
“I feel the togetherness at this club. The word is written on our tunnel and it’s so true.
“Scotland is a very friendly country.
“People in the street talk to you all the time and they can’t do enough for you.
Thank you to all the Lichties who made the trip north to cheer on their team at Bellslea Park!
Fantastic support and a few fans got to join in the celebrations for our second goal!
See you all back at Gayfield on Saturday! pic.twitter.com/s5FoJUsMhe
— Arbroath FC (@ArbroathFC) November 27, 2022
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity to live and play in here. Arbroath have made me feel like I’m part of the family.
“I don’t know how long I will be at Arbroath for but I promise the fans I’ll give everything I’ve got for the club.
“I will play with passion and all my heart for the club to try and help them succeed.”
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