Odilon Kossounou has made his long-awaited return to the pitch following a lengthy injury layoff, handing a significant boost to Emerse Faé’s Ivory Coast squad ahead of the remaining 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The 24-year-old defender, sidelined since sustaining a right adductor injury in training with Atalanta on January 11, underwent surgery that ruled him out of crucial international fixtures in March.
His absence was keenly felt as Ivory Coast faced Burundi and Gambia, both matches ending in narrow 1-0 victories for the Elephants.
After months of rehabilitation and a cautious reintroduction to training, the former Bayer Leverkusen player finally rejoined full-team sessions last week.
His patience and persistence were rewarded on Sunday when he came off the bench during Atalanta’s 1-0 victory over AC Milan, featuring for approximately 30 minutes after replacing Berat Djimsiti.
It was his first competitive appearance since the turn of the year, marking the end of a challenging chapter in his career.
Kossounou’s early return defied initial expectations, which had suggested his season might be over. Instead, the Abidjan-born centre-back has demonstrated impressive resilience, positioning himself in time to contribute both to his club and his national team during a crucial period.
This development comes as welcome news to Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Faé, who has not called up Kossounou since September 2024.
With the Elephants entering the final stretch of their World Cup qualifying campaign, the return of one of their most dependable defenders could prove decisive.
His strength in duels, tactical awareness, and versatility in the backline have made him a valued asset in the Ivorian setup.
Kossounou’s absence during the March international break had raised concerns over the stability of Faé’s defence.
Now, with his return to fitness and competitive action, the national team gains not only experience but also the reassurance of having one of its core players back in the fold.
The timing of his comeback could not be more crucial. With qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup edging closer, Faé will be eager to reintegrate Kossounou into his plans.
The coming weeks will be vital for the defender to regain full match sharpness and rhythm, both at club level with Atalanta and on the international stage.
While Kossounou eases back into top-flight football, Ivorian fans will be watching closely, hopeful that his presence will strengthen the Elephants’ bid for a return to the world’s biggest stage.
His form and fitness could well shape Ivory Coast’s defensive prospects as they chase a ticket to North America.
As the qualifiers approach, all eyes will be on Kossounou’s progress, with his return marking not just a personal milestone but a pivotal moment for his national side’s ambitions.
