Manu Koné

Kouadio Emmanuel Boris Koné — known as Manu — was born in Colombes, France, and holds dual French and Ivorian nationality. He emerged through Toulouse before Borussia Mönchengladbach signed him for €9 million, and over four Bundesliga seasons he developed into one of the most highly regarded midfielders in German football, making 79 league appearances and famously scoring in a DFB-Pokal victory over Bayern Munich.

Koné is a powerful, dynamic central midfielder who can do it all: win the ball, drive forward with it, press aggressively, and distribute with quality. Standing 1.85m, he has the physical tools to dominate midfield duels and the technique to play through pressure. He arrived at Roma on a loan with obligation to buy for €18 million and quickly established himself as one of the first names on the team sheet.

He has represented France at all youth levels and earned 12 senior caps, adding a 2024 Olympic silver medal to his collection. In 2024, he was appointed a Knight of the National Order of Merit — an unusual honour for a 23-year-old footballer that speaks to the impression he has made beyond the pitch.