Ismaël Koné
Back in training Thursday
Kone (illness) has avoided a major ailment and practiced with the Canadian national team, and he should be available for Friday's clash with Bosnia-Herzegovina, Joseph McBride of The Mirror reports.
Analysis: Kone missed the previous training session due to a fever but made a quick comeback, suggesting he'll be ready to start in the first World Cup group stage game. The midfielder's presence in the lineup would limit Nathan Saliba and Jonathan Osorio to substitute roles in the short term. Kone recorded six goals over 35 Serie A appearances for Sassuolo in 2025/26, and he has also scored four times across 39 matches at the international level, but he's more likely to be a source of passing numbers in his central spot.
Sits out training with fever
Kone (illness) missed Canada's training session with a fever and returned to the team hotel to rest, with his availability for Friday's opener still unconfirmed, OneSoccer's Kristian Jack reports.
Analysis: Kone's return to the hotel to rest provides some clarity on his earlier departure from training, with a fever rather than an injury behind his absence. His availability for Friday's opener however remains unconfirmed, leaving Canada's midfield plans uncertain heading into the tournament. Nathan Saliba or Jonathan Osorio remain options to fill his place should he not recover in time.
Set for starting role with Canada
Kone is expected to be a starter for Canada at the 2026 World Cup.
Analysis: Kone is heading out for the World Cup with Canada this summer and is likely to earn a decent role, with a starting spot expected by most. This comes after a decent season with Sassuolo, recording a solid six goals in 35 appearances (33 starts), although he didn't earn a single assist. The midfielder should see the ball at his feet a decent amount for Canada as they push up the field, leading to numerous opportunities. However, with a 4-4-2 formation typically deployed by Canada, he could see a less advanced role due to two forwards and a winger on each flank.
Select Player
Search and select a player to compare