Transfer fuels Kln as Gideon Mensah debuts against Real Sociedad

Ghana defender Gideon Mensah completed a free transfer to Bundesliga side FC Koln, signing a contract through June 2028 after leaving French club Auxerre earlier this summer. He made his unofficial debut on Saturday, featuring in Koln’s 2-1 friendly victory over Spanish side Real Sociedad.

Koln targeted Mensah for his defensive experience and versatility at left‑back. The German club secured him on a free transfer, avoiding a fee after his departure from French side Auxerre. His 114 career appearances, including 85 in Ligue 1, offered proven top‑flight exposure.

Mensah spent four seasons at Auxerre, where he amassed 114 matches. Of those, 85 were in France’s Ligue 1, demonstrating his ability at a high level. The free‑transfer deal allowed Koln to strengthen its back line without financial outlay.

Internationally, the Ghanaian has been a regular for the Black Stars since his debut in 2019, earning 44 caps. He featured in every minute of Ghana’s four matches at the recent World Cup in North America. His performances on the world stage raised his profile ahead of the move.

Mensah becomes only the fifth Ghanaian to represent Kln, following Anthony Baffoe, Edward Sarpei, Derek Boateng and Kingsley Schindler. He will wear the number 14 jersey as the German side prepares for the 2026/27 Bundesliga campaign. The friendly against Real Sociedad.The provided his first minutes in a Koln shirt, signalling his readiness for the upcoming season.