FC Koln sporting director hails Gideon Mensah’s World Cup pedigree after completing transfer

Bundesliga side FC Köln have backed new signing Gideon Mensah to add quality and stability to their squad after completing the signing of the Ghana international on a long-term contract.

The 27-year-old joins the German club as a free agent after bringing an end to his four-year spell with French Ligue 1 side AJ Auxerre.

Sporting director Thomas Kessler revealed the club had been tracking the Black Stars left-back for an extended period before securing his signature.

“We have been monitoring Gideon for quite some time and are delighted that we have been able to bring him to FC. He brings international experience, delivered strong performances in France last season and confirmed that quality at the World Cup,” Kessler said.

Mensah arrives in Germany following an impressive FIFA World Cup campaign, playing every minute of Ghana’s four matches as the Black Stars reached the Round of 32 before suffering a narrow defeat to Colombia.

The defender became available after his contract with Auxerre expired, ending a successful stint that began with a loan move in 2021 before becoming permanent a year later.

Last season, Mensah made 30 Ligue 1 appearances and contributed two assists as Auxerre secured top-flight survival.