Following Canada's announcement that Ismael Kone would miss the remainder of the FIFA World Cup 2026 through injury, the midfielder shared an emotional message on social media to thank fans and teammates for their support.

AN EMOTIONAL MESSAGE

Without losing his sense of humor, the Abidjan-born midfielder thanked his teammates for their support during Canada's match and expressed his affection for the group. He highlighted the strong bond within the Canadian squad and vowed to return soon to create more memories with them.

“To Canadian brothers, as I turned myself into assistant coach to support you from the sideline.😂 I wanted you to know that I love you guys from the bottom of my heart and our brotherhood is everything to me. What you guys did yesterday will stay with me forever. I’ll be back very soon and we’ll keep making more memories together,” Koné wrote on Instagram.

He also reflected on how he is processing the setback and the faith that is helping him through it.

“ALLAH has never failed me. Throughout my life, not even once. So why doubt him now? Especially knowing that. He knows and sees everything before it even happened. He has a plan and a vision for all of us. This battle is test to my faith in him and to my character. And honestly I’m ready for it because, ALLAH will never give you a challenge that you can’t overcome and being tested is the best of gift from god.

"Your love and support has been felt, honestly thank you so much. You can’t even imagine, how grateful I am to everyone who reached out and that has me in their prayers. I thank god for that because not everyone is this fortunate.❤️”

Koné underwent surgery on Thursday night after suffering fractures to the tibia and fibula in his left leg. He is currently recovering at Vancouver General Hospital, surrounded by his mother and family as he begins his road back to the pitch.

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