Ivorian defender Koffi Kouao will leave FC Metz at the end of his contract this June, the player has confirmed. Kouao announced his departure via a social media post, bringing to a close a four-year spell with the Ligue 1 club after joining from Portuguese side Vizela in 2022.
Kouao expressed his gratitude to the club and its supporters, stating he had always tried to give his all on the pitch. "It has been four seasons made of highs and lows, joys, sadnesses," he wrote. "But I have always tried to give everything on the pitch for this club, and to be up to the task off it. Three more matches to finish this season well. But it has been an honour." The 26-year-old referenced a final farewell at the Stade Saint-Symphorien on May 10th for the club's last home match of the season against Lorient.
The defender has been a consistent presence for Metz since his arrival, making 113 appearances across Ligue 2 and Ligue 1, according to the club's official channels. He established himself as a dedicated and energetic figure, both in the dressing room and during his distinctive pre-match warm-up routines, which became notable among fans. His departure comes as no surprise, with his contract situation having been clear for some time.
Kouao will be suspended for Metz's upcoming match against Monaco but will be available for the final two fixtures of the campaign. His exit is the first confirmed departure for a Metz side that faces a significant summer, as they are currently locked in a relegation battle and sit in 16th place, the final spot that would entail a relegation playoff. The club's sporting director, as well as several other players, are also out of contract at season's end, pointing to a period of considerable transition.
For Kouao, the move represents an opportunity to seek a new challenge as a free agent. His experience in both of France's top divisions and his status as a player entering his prime will likely attract interest from clubs across Europe. For Metz, his departure opens up a slot in the defensive ranks and frees up wage budget, but it also removes a popular and experienced squad member as they plan for an uncertain future, which could be in either Ligue 1 or Ligue 2 next season.
