Odilon Kossounou

Kossounou (thigh) played 60 minutes of Monday's 2-0 friendly victory against Philadelphia Union II, confirming his return ahead of Ivory Coast's World Cup opener against Ecuador on June 14.

Analysis: Kossounou had been training separately from the group after suffering a grade one biceps femoris strain that ruled him out of Atalanta's final two matches of the season, making his extended run-out a significant relief for coach Emerse Fae. The center-back contributed to four clean sheets across 29 appearances (20 starts) this season, posting 29 tackles, 22 interceptions and 55 clearances, and his return to fitness gives Ivory Coast their preferred defensive options ahead of what promises to be a highly competitive group stage.

Jun 3, 2026

Trains separately ahead of WC

Kossounou (thigh) has been training separately from the rest of the Ivory Coast squad and is unlikely to be available for Thursday's friendly against France, according to Daniel Navas of Dsports.

Analysis: Kossounou had already been ruled out of Atalanta's final two matches of the season with a grade one biceps femoris strain, making his ability to train fully with the national team a concern heading into the World Cup. The center-back contributed to four clean sheets across 29 appearances including 20 starts this season, posting 29 tackles, 22 interceptions and 55 clearances before the injury struck. Ivory Coast open their World Cup campaign against Ecuador in Philadelphia on June 14, leaving limited time for Kossounou to prove his fitness before the tournament begins. Should he be unable to recover in time, Wilfried Singo is expected to start in his place at center-back.

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