Genoa continues to see key departures from its squad this winter, following the exit of Togolese winger Serge Gakpé, who moved to Atalanta Bergamo. The latest to leave is Senegalese full-back Issa Cissokho, who has been loaned to Bari until the end of the season. The Serie B side is hoping his addition will bolster their push for promotion to the top flight.
Cissokho, 28, arrived at Genoa from Nantes last season, but he struggled to secure a regular place in the first team. Despite his experience in Ligue 1 and his versatility on the flanks, he found opportunities limited in a competitive Genoa squad. The club ultimately decided to allow the player to move on loan, giving him the chance to gain more playing time and contribute meaningfully elsewhere.
Bari, currently 4th in Serie B and aiming to close the 12-point gap with the leaders, sees Cissokho as a vital reinforcement. The club has been active in the transfer market, having already secured Cameroonian midfielder Minala. By adding Cissokho to their roster, Bari hopes to strengthen their defensive stability while also gaining an experienced player capable of contributing to the attack from the flanks.
For Cissokho, the move represents an opportunity to revive his career and make an impact on a club chasing promotion. Known for his speed, tactical awareness, and ability to support both defense and attack, he is expected to provide Bari with additional options on the left side of the pitch. His experience in European football, particularly in France’s top division, is anticipated to bring maturity and composure to a side fighting to return to Serie A.
Genoa, on the other hand, continues to see changes in its squad as it looks to restructure and manage resources. The departure of Gakpé and now Cissokho reflects a period of transition for the Italian club, which aims to balance squad depth while managing contracts and opportunities for younger talents. While the club loses depth in wide positions, the exits may open doors for emerging players to step up in the second half of the Serie A season.
Bari’s fans, meanwhile, are hopeful that the arrival of Cissokho, combined with their existing talent, will provide the extra edge needed in the critical final months of the Serie B campaign. The club will rely on his defensive solidity and occasional attacking contributions to help secure wins and maintain their promotion challenge.
As the transfer window progresses, both Genoa and Bari will be closely monitoring performances, with Cissokho’s integration into the team seen as pivotal for Bari’s title ambitions. His journey from struggling at Genoa to a potentially transformative presence at Bari underscores the dynamic nature of mid-season transfers in Italian football, where both players and clubs seek opportunities for growth and success.
