Ismaël Koné
Quiet in draw
Kone recorded one shot (zero on goal) and two crosses (zero accurate) in Friday's 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Analysis: Kone didn't have much to do during Friday's draw and he struggled to really get involved in the attack. His lone shot was poor and neither of his crosses proved very threatening. The midfielder is still getting back to full fitness, but even when fully healthy it's unlikely he becomes a major contributor in the attack.
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.
Unclear status after early exit
Kone (undisclosed) left Canada's training session before it began, raising concerns over a possible injury, OneSoccer's Kristian Jack reports.
Analysis: Kone had trained in full the previous day and even spoke to the press, making his early departure from the session a concerning sign of a potential injury. The midfielder had started both of Canada's last two friendlies and was expected to feature in the starting XI, with nothing yet confirmed by Canada Soccer leaving his situation unclear. Should an injury be confirmed, Nathan Saliba or Jonathan Osorio could step in to fill his place in midfield
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.
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