Ismaël Koné Joins Stade Rennes on Loan Deal from Marseille

Ismaël Koné joins Stade Rennais on loan from Olympique de Marseille

Summary:

  • Following a €12 million transfer to Marseille in the summer of 2024, Ismaël Koné has joined Stade Rennais on loan for the rest of the season. 
  • The deal included a €14 million purchase option.
  • The midfielder‘s time at Marseille has been underwhelming, only 388 minutes across nine appearances.

Canadian midfielder Ismaël Koné is on the move again. Following his €12 million transfer from Watford to Olympique Marseille last summer, the 22-year-old is now loaned to Stade Rennais for the remainder of the soccer season. 

According to Transfermarkt, the €1 million loan deal includes a €14 million purchase option in the summer.

388 Minutes in 9 Games

Koné’s time at Marseille has been underwhelming, with only 388 minutes across nine appearances in all competitions

His struggles were triggered by an injury at the start of the season, which kept him out for six games while considerably limiting his ability to integrate into the squad. 

The player was forced to work together with his agents to secure a move for the winter transfer window.

Stade Rennais, known for its ability to nurture young talent, presents an exciting opportunity for Ismaël Koné to relaunch his career. 

The club has a strong history of developing players like Ousmane Dembélé, Jérémy Doku, and Désiré Doué, who have all gone on to make significant moves to top clubs. 

“This Is a Golden Opportunity”

For Koné, joining Rennes represents the chance to take the next step and build a solid reputation in Ligue 1.

After his transfer, Koné, who moved from the Ivory Coast to Canada at seven, expressed his excitement:

I’m more of a box-to-box player who likes to play forward and defend. This is a golden opportunity, so I’m very happy. My aim is to establish myself in Ligue 1 and get back on the pitch as quickly as possible. 

Rennes’ style and focus on youth development provide the perfect setting for Koné to continue his growth.

Currently in 15th place in Ligue 1, 13 places, and 20 points below Marseille, the club offers a different environment. 

However, they also need reinforcements, as they have won six games, drawn two, and lost 12 in their first 20 games.

Rennes also has three Coupe de France titles, which were obtained in 1965, 197,1, and 2019.

Koné signed a professional contract with CF Montreal in 2021 and made his MLS debut the following year. 

He quickly became a key player for Montreal before switching to European clubs, representing Canada at the 2022 World Cup, where he was the youngest player on the squad..