Arouna Koné: Reborn at Everton and Focused on the Future
After a long struggle with injuries, **Arouna Koné** is finally back in form at Everton. The Ivorian striker, who has previously played for **PSV Eindhoven** and **Levante**, has been contributing goals and assists, proving his quality in the Premier League. Despite the challenges, Koné remains focused on his current goals, both at club level and for the Ivory Coast national team.
Speaking about Everton’s mid-table position, Koné attributes the club’s recent struggles not to complacency but to the **overall strength of Premier League teams** and their resources, boosted by FA subsidies.
Reflecting on his own progress, Koné describes this season as a **personal rebirth**. “Many people had almost buried me,” he said. “After 13 months of difficulties, I came back, and today I try to enjoy every minute on the field.” Injuries during his early years at Everton slowed his integration, but Koné embraced these challenges with **faith and patience**, believing that his recovery was part of a larger plan.
His commitment to regaining full fitness was evident when he **skipped his vacation** to focus on preparation, showing his determination to repay the club and the coach for their support. Koné also highlighted his strong professional relationship with **Roberto Martinez**, noting that their shared history at Wigan, where they won the FA Cup together, has fostered mutual trust and communication.
On the pitch, Koné has already scored **five goals** and provided numerous assists this season. While he remains ambitious about personal milestones, his primary objective is to **secure a regular starting position** at Everton, confident that goals and stats will naturally follow.
Regarding his international career, Koné last played for the Elephants during the **2013 Africa Cup of Nations**. While injuries delayed his return, he is optimistic about earning another call-up. “Fitness doesn’t come immediately after an injury,” he said, “but I believe I’ll return to the national team when the time is right.” He remains motivated, not by age but by **personal challenges**, setting new goals after each milestone.
Koné also reacted positively to the **return of Yaya Touré** to the Ivory Coast squad, describing it as great news for the national team. He believes that having players of Touré’s caliber strengthens the team and inspires younger players.
Off the field, Koné continues his philanthropic work through his **FONDAKA foundation**, which supports children and families in need by donating school kits, organizing vaccination campaigns, and sponsoring sports activities. This year, the foundation aims to expand its impact with **fundraising initiatives in Europe**, which will finance the construction of a sports academy with a school, vocational center, and dispensary.
For Koné, the challenges of injury, recovery, and competition have become stepping stones toward greater success. Focused on contributing to Everton’s rise and helping the Ivory Coast national team, he remains determined to make every moment count, on and off the pitch.
