Who is Abdoulaye Kante? The teenage midfielder excelling in Ligue 2

Jacque Talbot

14 May 2024 05:00 CDT
5 min read

It’s a name you probably recognise but a player you likely don’t know.

Teenage sensation Abdoulaye Kante may have struggled with injuries in the 2023/24 season, but his talent is clear.

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The Troyes midfielder managed to secure a spot in the first XI of the side before injuries took a hold of him.

But just who is Kante?

What position does Abdoulaye Kante play?

Kante plays as a ball-winning midfielder, positioned in the No.6 role for Troyes.

How good is Abdoulaye Kante play?

It’s hard to determine precisely how good a player will be at such a young age, but the fact that Kante managed to earn a place into the first team this term is a big testament to his talent.

He began his career at Montfermeil Under-19s before moving to Troyes’ last summer on a free transfer. Kante provided one assist and scored a goal for the club before picking up an ankle knock.

In 18 games in all competitions, Kante has made more than a good impression.

SciSports data shows that he made 3.86 carries per 90 minutes, as well as 5.24 dribbles and 0.83 shots. Numbers speak of a well-rounded player capable of functioning in a variety of roles in the centre of the park.

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His real strength lies in his defensive numbers - with 7.89 recoveries per 90 minutes, along with 3.20 tackles and 2.37 interceptions.

Watching him play you can see that Kante is a formidable presence, but also an intelligent player who has an eye for a pass and can dictate a game from deep.

It’s not clear how well he will develop, but SciSports suggests that he is aboving at an above average rate in Ligue 2 - which is all the more better when you consider how young Kante is.