Kasimpasa sign Malian forward Fousseni Diabaté on two-year deal

Kasimpasa have confirmed the signing of Malian winger Fousseni Diabaté on a free transfer, bringing the 29-year-old back to the Turkish Süper Lig after a spell in Switzerland with Lausanne.

The move was finalised on Tuesday, 9 September 2025, with the club announcing that Diabaté has penned a two-year contract with the option of a third season.

The deal was completed following a medical at Liv Hospital Ulus, Kasimpasa’s official health sponsor, and a signing ceremony at the club’s Turgay Ciner Sports Facilities.

Return to Familiar Ground

For Diabaté, the transfer marks a return to a league he knows well. The Mali international has previously represented Trabzonspor, Sivasspor, Göztepe and Giresunspor, amassing 75 appearances in the Süper Lig. During that time, he scored 11 goals and registered nine assists, building a reputation as a dynamic wide player with pace and directness.

His most recent chapter was in Switzerland, where he joined Lausanne. Following the expiration of his contract this summer, he became a free agent, prompting Kasimpasa to make their move. The Istanbul-based club, keen to strengthen their attacking options, secured his signature in the closing stages of the summer window.

Club Statement

“After completing his medical checks at our health sponsor Liv Hospital Ulus, our new signing Fousseni Diabaté signed a two-plus-one-year deal at a ceremony held at our Turgay Ciner Sports Facilities,” Kasimpasa confirmed in an official statement on their website.

The club expressed confidence that Diabaté’s experience and attacking flair will provide immediate impact as they aim to climb the Süper Lig table this season.

A Player with Versatility

Renowned for his ability to operate across the frontline, Diabaté’s strengths lie in his acceleration, dribbling and willingness to take on defenders. His capacity to stretch play on the right flank, coupled with an eye for goal, has made him a valuable option for previous clubs both in Turkey and abroad.

The Malian international will be expected to add creativity and penetration in Kasimpasa’s attack, offering a different dimension to their offensive play.

International Pedigree

Diabaté has also featured for Mali at international level, where his direct style has complemented the team’s counter-attacking approach. While not always a regular starter for the national side, his inclusion in recent squads highlights his standing as a dependable option.

A Fresh Chapter in Istanbul

Now embarking on a new chapter with Kasimpasa, Diabaté will be tasked with reigniting the form he previously displayed in Turkish football. Supporters will remember his successful spells with clubs such as Sivasspor, where his combination of speed and finishing ability often proved decisive.

With the Süper Lig season in full swing, the timing of his arrival could prove crucial. Kasimpasa hope that his familiarity with the league will allow him to adapt quickly and contribute immediately.

For Diabaté, this return to Turkey is both a familiar challenge and an opportunity to reaffirm his value at the top level. After a brief stay in Switzerland, his career now circles back to Istanbul, where he will look to make his mark once again.