Ibrahim Sulemana has returned to Cagliari for the remainder of the season after cutting short his loan spell at Bologna, bringing the Ghanaian midfielder back to a club where he previously made his mark.
The 22-year-old, who remains under contract with Atalanta Bergamo, has joined the Sardinian side on a six-month deal following the termination of his loan with Bologna. The move comes a year and a half after Sulemana’s first stint at Cagliari and is intended to reinforce a midfield unit weakened by a series of injuries.
Sulemana’s time in Bologna proved frustrating. Since arriving on loan from Atalanta in the summer of 2024, the midfielder struggled to secure regular opportunities, making only three appearances across competitions. With limited minutes and his development stalling, all parties agreed on an early end to the arrangement, clearing the way for his return to familiar surroundings.
For Cagliari, the deal represents both a practical and strategic move. The club knows the player well, having benefited from his contributions during his previous spell in 2023, when he featured in 24 matches and scored twice. His profile — combining physical strength, energy, pace and the ability to strike from distance — is seen as well suited to the demands of the Italian game and to the club’s immediate needs.
The midfielder’s arrival is expected to add depth and flexibility to Cagliari’s engine room at a critical stage of the campaign. At 22, Sulemana is still regarded as a player with significant upside, and the chance to return to a familiar environment could help him regain rhythm and confidence after a difficult period.
Cagliari confirmed the move in an official statement, outlining the terms of the agreement and underlining their satisfaction at completing the deal. “Cagliari Calcio is pleased to announce the acquisition of the registration rights for Ibrahim Sulemana, who arrives from Atalanta Bergamo on loan until the end of the 2025/2026 season, with an option to buy,” the club said.
The inclusion of a purchase option highlights Cagliari’s longer-term interest in the Ghana international, whose future will be reassessed at the end of the season. For now, the priority is clear: to provide Sulemana with consistent playing time and allow him to rediscover the form that previously made him an important part of the Sardinian side.
As the season enters its decisive phase, the midfielder’s return offers Cagliari a timely boost and gives Sulemana an opportunity to relaunch his campaign in a setting where he has already shown he can thrive.
Suggested headlines:
- Ibrahim Sulemana returns to Cagliari after ending Bologna loan
- Cagliari bring back Sulemana on short-term deal from Atalanta
- Sulemana seals Cagliari return as Bologna loan is cut short
- Cagliari strengthen midfield with return of Ibrahim Sulemana
