Franck Kessié returns to Atalanta as free agent nine seasons after leaving

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·29 August 2026

Franck Kessié has rejoined Atalanta as a free agent, nine seasons after leaving the club. Atalanta confirmed the midfielder's return on Saturday.

The 29-year-old Ivorian left Atalanta in 2017 to join AC Milan. He had been unattached since departing Al-Ahli this summer.

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Kessié sought a move back to Italy after his Saudi spell, despite interest from several Italian clubs.

He comes off a prolific season in the Saudi Pro League, scoring 12 goals and providing 6 assists in 42 matches in all competitions.

Captain of Ivory Coast, he previously recorded 7 goals and 4 assists in 31 appearances for Atalanta. He also won Serie A with AC Milan in 2021-2022.

Source: L'Équipe

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