Franck Kessié continues to prove his worth with another major trophy, guiding Al-Ahli SC to Asian Champions League glory with a goal in their 2-0 victory over Kawasaki Frontale in Jeddah last Saturday.
The Ivorian midfielder, who joined the Saudi club in the summer of 2023, has quickly become a cornerstone in his new environment, carrying over the form and influence that made him a standout in European football.
His performance in the final was not only a demonstration of his technical and tactical prowess but also a testament to his ability to deliver on the biggest stage.
Kessié’s move to Saudi Arabia might have taken him away from the traditional European spotlight, but it has done little to dim his brilliance. With this latest title, he now boasts four major trophies in just three years, spanning three different clubs and two continents.
Whether in Italy, Spain or now in the Middle East, the 27-year-old has consistently risen to the occasion, stamping his authority in midfield with every new challenge.
His journey to Saudi Arabia followed a notable chapter in Serie A, where he played a pivotal role in securing AC Milan’s first league title in over a decade in 2022.
That historic triumph was soon followed by a move to FC Barcelona, where Kessié added both the Spanish Super Cup and La Liga title to his growing list of honours.
His winning goal in the Clasico against Real Madrid marked a defining moment in Barça’s domestic campaign.
Despite a quieter profile compared to some of his contemporaries, Kessié has steadily built a reputation for consistency, leadership and big-match temperament.
Each stop along his club career has revealed a player capable of adapting, improving and delivering results. These are attributes that have not gone unnoticed at international level.
For Ivory Coast, Kessié remains a central figure. The midfielder from Ouragahio has earned over 80 caps for the national team and was instrumental in the Elephants’ victorious 2023 Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
His quiet leadership and dependable presence in the middle of the park make him an indispensable asset for the national side as they plan for future tournaments.
Now firmly established in Saudi football, Kessié’s influence continues to grow. At Al-Ahli, he has emerged not only as a midfield general but as a key component of the club’s ambitious vision.
His ability to combine strength, technique and positional intelligence has made him a fan favourite and a dependable performer under pressure.
The midfielder’s latest success in Asia only further highlights his enduring class. Whether wearing the green of Côte d’Ivoire or the white of Al-Ahli, Franck Kessié has shown that quality and professionalism transcend geography. With his form holding steady, he remains one of Africa’s most reliable footballers both on the continent and beyond.
