Leicester City defender Woyo Coulibaly could return early from Sassuolo loan

"Right-back Woyo Coulibaly could be set for an abrupt return to England, with reports suggesting that Sassuolo and Leicester City are discussing the early termination of his season-long loan agreement. According to a report from Tutto Mercato Web, the 26-year-old defender has struggled to find consistent playing time at the Mapei Stadium since his move in the final hours of the summer transfer window."

"However, any such move would require the explicit endorsement of his parent club, Leicester City. The situation is complicated by the fact that the Malian international is reportedly not in the plans of Foxes manager Marti Cifuentes for the remainder of the 2025/26 campaign. Consequently, if the loan is terminated, Leicester would likely need to secure another suitor immediately to ensure Coulibaly does not spend the next six months in the reserves."

"Coulibaly emerged as a promising defensive talent through the prestigious Le Havre academy. Known for his versatility, capable of playing as a right-back, left-back, or even in midfield, Coulibaly earned a reputation as a modern inverted wing-back. His career gained significant momentum during a successful stint at Parma, where he made over 80 appearances and helped the side stabilize in the upper echelons of Italian football. This form earned him a 3 million move to Leicester City in January 2025."

Sassuolo and Leicester City are reportedly discussing an early termination of Woyo Coulibaly's season-long loan after the 26-year-old struggled for consistent playing time at the Mapei Stadium. Coulibaly chose Sassuolo over offers from Watford and Paris FC but has remained on the periphery of the squad. Any loan termination would require Leicester City's approval, and manager Marti Cifuentes reportedly has no plans for the Malian for the remainder of the 2025/26 season. If returned, Leicester would likely need to find another suitor quickly to prevent him spending six months in the reserves. Coulibaly progressed through Le Havre's academy, thrived at Parma with over 80 appearances, and moved to Leicester for 3 million in January 2025, but has struggled to adapt to the pace and physicality of English football.

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