Aboudou Salim set to extend contract with AS Cotonou
Benin’s promising young footballer, Aboudou Salim, is on the verge of extending his contract with the Cotonou Sports Association (AS Cotonou). The 19-year-old defensive midfielder, who joined the club in June 2022, is expected to continue his journey with the Yellow and Blacks, as negotiations for a contract extension reach an advanced stage.
Salim’s first season with AS Cotonou was nothing short of remarkable.
He played a pivotal role in the team’s campaign, featuring in 31 out of 40 matches during the 2022-2023 season, showcasing his exceptional talent and earning recognition as one of the league’s standout performers.
His contributions were instrumental in AS Cotonou’s pursuit of the league title, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in Beninese football.
Despite suffering a serious injury that temporarily sidelined him, Salim’s impact on the team has not gone unnoticed.
AS Cotonou’s management, led by Ibrahim Bouraima, has made it clear that retaining Salim is a top priority during this summer’s transfer window.
The club is keen to secure the young midfielder’s services for the foreseeable future, demonstrating their commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.
According to sources close to the negotiations, AS Cotonou is preparing to offer Salim a new two-year contract, with the second year being optional.
This deal would keep the player at the club until at least 2025, with the potential for an extension depending on his performance and the club’s future plans.
Both parties are reportedly in agreement on the terms, with final discussions set to take place before August 15 to iron out the remaining details and make the extension official.
Salim, who began his career at Réal Sports and has quickly risen through the ranks of Beninese football, is viewed as a key asset for AS Cotonou.
His combination of defensive prowess, composure on the ball, and tactical awareness has made him an indispensable part of the squad.
The extension of his contract is seen as a strategic move by AS Cotonou to build a strong foundation for future success.
For Salim, the contract extension represents an opportunity to continue his development at a club where he has already made a significant impact.
As he approaches his 20th birthday, the young midfielder will be looking to recover fully from his injury and return to the form that made him one of the most promising talents in Benin.
The continuation of Salim’s journey with AS Cotonou is a positive sign for the club’s ambitions and a testament to their belief in nurturing young talent.
Fans of the Yellow and Blacks will no doubt be eager to see Salim back on the pitch, contributing to the team’s success in the coming seasons.