Aston Villa's Ivorian signing Mohamed Kone shines for Villans

Born in 2007, Kone developed at the renowned MimoSifcom Academy in Abidjan, the same institution that produced Yaya and Kolo Toure, Odilon Kossounou and Karim Konate. His progress was swift, breaking into ASEC's senior squad at 17 and featuring in both the Ivorian top flight and the CAF Confederation Cup. At international level, he has already collected five caps for Ivory Coast's Under-20 side.

Villa finalised the deal in July 2025 on a five-year contract, following a successful trial at Bodymoor Heath. Confirmation came after pre-season images emerged of the youngster in claret and blue, and he has since been integrated into the Under-21s. Kone made his debut on 29 August in Premier League 2 against Chelsea, wearing the number 8 shirt.

He made an early impact on 30 September, scoring his first competitive goal with a precise left-footed strike from the edge of the box in the Vertu Trophy against Peterborough United. His effort gave Villa the lead at half-time, although the holders fought back to win 4-2.

The move is the latest product of Villa's strategic investment in African partnerships. In 2023, the club linked with Egyptian side ZED FC to create pathways for young talent. ASEC Mimosas joined the inaugural U-17 ZED International Football League in Cairo earlier this year, where Villa scouts tracked Kone and other prospects.

Academy director Mark Harrison has said the club remain committed to attracting "quality and potential" while providing the structures for young players to adapt to elite football.

Kone himself has spoken of his ambition since arriving in Birmingham: "It is a big opportunity to join a club with great history and ambition. I want to work hard and make the fans proud."

As Villa prepare for their weekend Premier League fixture, Koné will continue his development with the Under-21s, while fellow ASEC prospect Ibrahim Dosso also remains on trial.

For Villa, the signing signals their intent to continue blending homegrown youth with international talent in pursuit of long-term success.

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