Franck Kessie’s return gives Atalanta a new leader, says Ederson

Franck Kessie has made an immediate impression on his return to Atalanta, with captain Ederson praising the midfielder’s calm personality and leadership qualities before he has even played a competitive match for the club.

Kessie, now 29, rejoined the Bergamo side as a free agent following the end of his time with Al-Ahli. The Ivory Coast international has signed a deal lasting several seasons with the club where he first made his mark in European football.

He left Atalanta in 2017 after a campaign in which he scored seven goals and provided four assists. But he returns nine years later with a very different status, having built a career that has included major domestic and international honours.

Speaking to Brazilian outlet Trivela, Ederson explained that Kessie had settled into the dressing room with striking ease. The Atalanta captain had known his new team-mate as a player but had never met him before the midfielder’s return to Bergamo.

According to Ederson, Kessie has presented himself as approachable, composed and willing to speak with everyone in the squad. That attitude has made a strong early impression, particularly given the experience and reputation he has gained during his career.

Kessie’s leadership role has developed alongside his achievements with club and country. He is now captain of Ivory Coast and has become accustomed to carrying responsibility in high-pressure matches.

Since leaving Atalanta, he has won Serie A with AC Milan, La Liga with Barcelona and several trophies in Saudi Arabia. His most significant international success came with Ivory Coast at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

Kessie played a central part in Ivory Coast’s third continental triumph and scored the equaliser in the final against Nigeria. That background is a major reason why Ederson already views him as a natural leader within the Atalanta squad.

His immediate sporting contribution will still need to be established. Kessie is expected to begin on the bench for Saturday’s important match against AS Roma, having spent the past three seasons playing in the Saudi Pro League.

However, his most recent campaign with Al-Ahli suggested that his influence remains considerable. He scored 12 goals and supplied six assists in 42 appearances, numbers that indicate he can still make a significant impact at the highest level.

Under Maurizio Sarri, Kessie’s physical strength, forward runs and experience could complement Ederson’s energy in midfield. Atalanta will value the emotional significance of his return, but the club’s priority is for him to contribute quickly on the pitch.

His move back to a major European league is also being watched closely in Ivory Coast. Herve Renard has taken charge of the Elephants, and the return of the national team captain to a leading European competition represents an important boost.

Kessie should gain greater exposure and regular opportunities to play in high-level matches. He left Bergamo in 2017 as a promising young player; he has come back with the expectation that he can become one of Atalanta’s senior figures.

Ederson already appears convinced that Kessie has the character required to fulfil that role.