Odilon Kossounou: Bayer Leverkusen’s Ivorian Defender
After a historic 2023/24 campaign, Bayer Leverkusen face an intriguing summer as they look to continue their phenomenal progression and compete with Europe’s elite both domestically and in the Champions League. One area that may see changes is their defence, with veteran stalwart Jonathan Tah’s contract expiring in June 2025 and Bayern Munich being heavily linked with a big-money transfer.
Die Werkself CEO Fernando Carro has hinted that a move this summer may be best for all parties, as they look to avoid losing one of their stars on a free transfer. Should a move materialise, 23-year-old centre back Odilon Kossounou could be poised to take on a more prominent role.
Hailing from the Ivory Coast, Kossounou began his footballing education at Abidjan-based outfit ASEC Mimosas, renowned for producing some of Africa’s greatest talents, including Didier Drogba and the Touré brothers (Kolo and Yaya). Shortly after his 18th birthday, Kossounou made the jump to Europe in January 2019, settling in Scandinavia with Swedish side Hammarby IF.
Although he appeared shaky at times, he showcased all the raw ingredients needed to become a top defender, and after only 9 appearances he moved to Club Brugge in a record sale for the Swedish side. In the Belgian league, Kossounou’s stock rose considerably, with his performances catching the eye of many of Europe’s elite.
After two successful seasons in Belgium, during which he won two league titles, Kossounou joined Bayer Leverkusen in 2021 for €23 million, making him the club’s fourth highest transfer of all time. Expectations were high for the 23 year old, and he is now beginning to to deliver real value for the German club.
Starting 21 out of 29 league games. Kossounou has been a mainstay in a Leverkusen back line that boasts the best defensive record in the league, conceding only 24 goals this campaign. The defender missed five league games due to his participation in the 2024 AFCON tournament, where he played his part in helping his nation win the tournament on home soil.
Photo: Koussounou’s Bundesliga 2023/24 heat map [Sofascore]
A modern centre back, Kossounou has primarily featured on the right of a three man defence, providing width in possession and offering cover for the dynamic wing back Jeremie Frimpong. His pace, clocking a top speed of 34.95 km/h — the sixth highest for centre backs in the Bundesliga this season — enables him to excel in this hybrid role.
He has played in a back four for his previous clubs and his national team, a position that seems more natural for the Ivorian, as he oftentimes appears awkward when pushing forward. However, his on the ball ability enables him to excel in a back three and is a key reason why Xabi Alonso values him highly.
Kossounou is one of the most composed centre backs in the league, exuding confidence with the ball at his feet. He ranks in the 95th percentile or higher for passes completed, progressive passes and carries, showcasing his comfort and skill in possession.
Photo: FBRef
There are some deficiencies in Kossounou’s game that he could address. Firstly, given his stature, 6ft 3in Kossounou lacks a dominant presence and doesn’t impose himself on his opponents as much as he could. This was evident in the AFCON win over Mali, where he was easily shrugged off the ball, conceding a penalty in his attempts to recover. Additionally, Kossounou struggles aerially, winning only 57.5% of his duels ranking in the 11% percentile (FBRef).
While Kossounou is an intelligent defender, often making calculated challenges, he sometimes has lapses in concentration, which result in him getting caught out of position and relying on his natural abilities to recover. Although these weaknesses are less noticeable when he plays alongside Tah at club level or Evan Ndicka on the international stage, they remain areas he needs to improve if he is to achieve his huge potential.
With Kossounou’s contract running until 2026, the upcoming season could be interesting. There has been plenty of interest in the Ivorian previously and despite his shortcomings he would surely be an astute acquisition given his price tag. With Alonso as head coach, Kossounou seems to be at the ideal environment to continue his development, nonetheless, Leverkusen may be cautious to avoid a recurrence of the situation they are in with Tah.
By: @079Ziz
Featured Image: @GabFoligno / ANP / Getty Images