Odilon Kossounou is expected to return to action for Atalanta this week after nearly three months on the sidelines through injury.
The Ivorian international has resumed individual training sessions and is likely to feature in Sunday’s Serie A clash against Lazio, marking a possible end to his spell out of the squad since mid-January. If he is not deemed fit in time for that encounter, he is anticipated to return the following weekend when Atalanta host Bologna.
Kossounou’s comeback is highly anticipated by the Bergamo faithful, who have grown accustomed to his commanding presence in defence since his arrival earlier this season.
The 23-year-old centre-back, on loan from Bayer Leverkusen, has quickly established himself as a vital figure under manager Gian Piero Gasperini.
Having made a seamless transition into Italian football, Kossounou has impressed with his composure, positional awareness, and ability to build play from the back.
Before his injury, he played a key role in Atalanta’s strong defensive performances and helped the side maintain momentum in both domestic and European competitions.
While the precise match for his return remains to be confirmed, both upcoming home fixtures present the perfect stage for his reintegration.
Facing top-six rivals Lazio and an in-form Bologna team in quick succession, Atalanta will be eager to have their defensive ranks bolstered at such a critical stage of the campaign.
Kossounou’s injury earlier this year disrupted what had been a promising start to his Serie A career. However, the club’s medical staff are now confident that the Ivorian is close to full fitness and ready to contribute again as Atalanta continue their push for European qualification.
His return also comes at a time when Gasperini’s side will be looking to reassert their defensive solidity. Kossounou’s blend of physicality and tactical discipline could be decisive as the club navigates a congested fixture schedule and seeks to maintain consistency in the league standings.
Atalanta’s fans will be eager to see the Ivorian international back on the pitch, especially with crucial points up for grabs in the coming weeks. Kossounou’s presence has been missed, and his return could provide a significant boost in the final stretch of the season.
Should he make his comeback against Lazio, it will mark the end of a difficult period for the defender and offer him the chance to reestablish the influence he held before injury interrupted his season. If not, his appearance against Bologna would offer the same opportunity in front of a home crowd ready to welcome him back.
With his recovery nearly complete, all signs point to a timely and impactful return for Odilon Kossounou in Atalanta colours.
