Can you tell us where you grew up and what it was like there?

The name of the place is Ile de la Reunion. I played football over there. All my family is there. When I was 14 years old, I came to play football in a big club at Lyon. That's my life, and everything started from there. It’s very sunny there. Never cold. There are beaches, and there’s good food. You know, very, very colourful.

What age did you start playing football?

I started very late. About six or seven. At first, I didn’t really know that I would enjoy playing football. I played all sports, like boxing and handball with my sister. She was very good, and we played together. Afterwards, I tried football with the men because at that time it was only boys. I felt very confident in football, and then I said: 'That's going to be my job.'

What was the name of your first grassroots team?

The name was Saint-Denis FC. It’s the capital of La Reunion. Everything was with the boys over there. At first I didn’t play striker; I was a central defender. Then I moved forward to midfield and now striker, so it feels good to score in front of the people and in the big stadiums.

Which person has influenced you the most in your career?

I’m one of these people when you're born somewhere very far and are not rich. A godmother is someone who gives you the motivation to go forward in your life.

So, I can say my godmother because in my family I don't have anyone who plays football, but she wanted me to follow my dreams.

What's been the best moment of your career so far?

I would like to say when you win something you work really hard for, like a trophy. Winning the Champions League was a really good memory for me.

Of course, I have four Champions Leagues, but I only really played and started in two of them so I feel very proud of myself for those. I played some of those games in front of my family so you know, that’s the best part.

Who are your best friends in football?

My ball... (laughs). I actually don't have a very best friend, but it's true that in Manchester, I had some good friends over there, like Jade Riviere. She helped me a lot with everything, on and off the pitch. Manchester is a very good city, with very good people, and a very good atmosphere.

Can you tell me your top three favourite footballers ever?

I love Marta. Dzsenifer Marozsan. And Ronaldinho. He is a player, you know, where you watch, and you see he is not thinking; he is just playing and enjoying, and I love that. He did what his body wanted to do, not his head and played without fear.

Do you have any nicknames?

Just Mel.

What do you like to do away from football?

I really love to enjoy time with my family; that’s the most important thing. Now I have a wife, and I enjoy spending time with her. I love fashion. So I spend a lot of money on that passion!

I also enjoy taking care of my body because my job is football, and I know that is very important. So, you know, recovery, staying home, enjoying the moment and relaxing.

Are you watching any TV series at the moment?

At the moment, no.

Who is your favourite music artist on Spotify?

Ooh, I really love Shenseea. Burna Boy, too. Everything Afrobeat, you know?

What are your top three places to go on holiday?

I want to say Mexico. I love it there. I got engaged there. Of course, La Reunion. And I think Spain is the best also.

If you had guests over for dinner, what would you cook for them?

I really love sweet potatoes. I’d do them with bacon.

Can you tell the Chelsea fans something they might not know about you?

When you see me, you can see I love football, and I enjoy it when I play. I’m not thinking a lot when I'm on the pitch. So I want you to enjoy it with me!

What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?

Seriously, it's just like, don't forget where you were born. Where you come from.

What does football mean to you?

Football means everything. You know, I said to my sister this morning, if Melvine don't have football, it's not Melvine. Football gave me a reason to do well, mentally and physically.