Middlesbrough midfielder Abdoulaye Kante has completed a permanent transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq. The 21-year-old's departure was confirmed this week ending his one-year association with the Championship club.
Kante arrived at Middlesbrough from French club Troyes for a fee of £2 million. He made a total of six appearances for Boro, with his only start coming in a 2-1 home victory over Lincoln City in the Carabao Cup. After five outings, he was sent on loan to Saint-Etienne for the latter part of the previous campaign.
What does Kante's departure mean for the squad?
Head coach Kim Hellberg acknowledged the player's efforts upon his return from loan. "He's come back in a good shape," Hellberg said. The club also issued a statement thanking the player, referred to by the nickname Alpha, for his contributions. Kante's exit opens a slot in the midfield department as Hellberg shapes his group for the season ahead. Middlesbrough currently sit 5th in the Championship with six points from three games, having scored six goals and conceded four. They are three points behind early leaders Charlton.
This squad adjustment comes at a time when Jeremy Sarmiento is currently sidelined, adding to the importance of midfield resources. Fans can track the full availability on the club's injuries page.
How did Kante's time at Middlesbrough unfold?
The Ivorian youth international's stint was brief and interrupted. His signing a year ago was seen as an investment in potential, but first-team opportunities proved limited. His loan to Saint-Etienne was designed to provide regular football, which has now led to a permanent move abroad. The Saudi Pro League has become an active destination for players across Europe, and Kante's switch follows that trend.
What is Middlesbrough's current situation?
Kim Hellberg's side have made a solid start to the new campaign with a record of two wins and one loss. Their next challenge is a tough away trip to face Burnley on September 2nd, a fixture detailed on the club's fixtures schedule. The team's form shows promise, but maintaining consistency will be key in a packed Championship season.
The departure of Abdoulaye Kante concludes a chapter for both the player and the club. Middlesbrough will now look to the players within their squad to maintain their positive early-season momentum as they prepare for the upcoming match at Turf Moor.
