Evra shared his reflections on social media, describing his visit to the memorial as “deep, powerful and emotional” and saying he believes understanding a country’s history is important to understanding its people.

“I want to say sorry for what happened to my Rwandan brothers and sisters,” Evra said on Wednesday. “No words can ever change the past, but seeing what Rwanda has built and how the country continues to move forward is truly inspiring.”

The former left-back also expressed respect for the country’s leadership, recalling that he had met President Paul Kagame in the past.

“I met your President a long time ago, but after seeing and understanding more about Rwanda’s journey, I have an even deeper respect for the way these difficult matters have been handled,” he said.

Evra also visited Kigali Golf Resort & Villas during his stay in the Rwandan capital.

The football legend is among the international guests expected to attend the Kwita Izina gorilla naming ceremony scheduled for September 4, 2026.

He is expected to be joined by other prominent football figures, including former France international Mamadou Sakho, who played for Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool.

The Kwita Izina ceremony brings together international figures, conservationists, government officials and other guests to celebrate Rwanda’s mountain gorilla conservation efforts.

Evra enjoyed a distinguished career as a left-back, representing several top European clubs, including Manchester United, Marseille and Juventus.

During his time at Manchester United, he won five English Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League in 2008. He also represented and captained the France national team, making 81 international appearances.

In his message, Evra concluded by calling for Rwanda’s history to be remembered while safeguarding its future.

“Respect Rwanda. The past must never be forgotten, and the future must always be protected,” he said.

Evra enjoyed a distinguished career as a left-back, representing several top European clubs, including Manchester United, Marseille and Juventus.