NEOM S.C. signs Ivory Coast youth midfielder Amadou Koné from Stade de Reims

NEOM, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, June 30, 2025 – NEOM Sports Club (NEOM S.C.) has announced the signing of promising Ivory Coast youth midfielder Amadou Koné from French Ligue 1 football club, Stade de Reims. The new acquisition marks a significant step in the club’s long-term vision to develop elite young talent.

Koné, 20, has made nearly 50 senior appearances for Reims, including 40 in Ligue 1, the highest level of the French football league system. His performances, maturity and consistency reportedly attracted interest from several leading European clubs.

Commenting on the signing, NEOM S.C. Chairman Meshari Al-Mutairi said: “Amadou Koné represents the future of football. He is technically gifted, mentally strong and hungry to grow. We are thrilled to welcome him to NEOM S.C. and look forward to supporting his development in our world-class environment.”

A product of Mali’s Afrique Football Élite, Koné joined Reims in July 2023 after being named ‘Best Player’ at the African Youth Cup (U-18). He quickly progressed from the reserve team to becoming a first-team regular. In March 2024, he made his Ivory Coast U-23 debut, further underlining his international potential.

Koné played a pivotal role in Reims’ journey to the 2024/25 Coupe de France final, where they finished as runners-up. Admired for his versatility as a modern box-to-box midfielder, he combines athleticism, tactical intelligence and composure under pressure – qualities that align perfectly with NEOM S.C.’s playing philosophy.

Koné said: “Joining NEOM S.C. is an exciting new chapter for me. I’m grateful for the opportunity and eager to contribute to the club’s ambitious project. I believe this is the perfect place to continue my growth and make an impact.”

Al-Mutairi added that the signing of Koné reflects NEOM S.C.’s commitment to building a competitive, youth-driven squad that blends local and international talent, pointing out that with its state-of-the-art facilities and clear development pathway, the club is poised to become a leading force, both in the region and beyond.