Out of contract at Metz, Ismaël Traoré considers retirement

Africa 17 April 2025 at 14:21

Lydiane N'Po

News Editor

Ismaël Traoré, whose contract expires in June, hinted that this season might be the last of an illustrious eighteen-year professional journey. During a press conference held at Frescaty this Thursday, April 17, two days before a crucial match against Red Star, he openly discussed his future.

"On a personal level, I must admit that I'm thinking about retiring at the end of the season. The plan was to play one more year and then stop," explained the 38-year-old Ivorian defender. The former Angers player does not completely rule out an extension if they secure promotion to Ligue 1.

FC Metz currently sits 3rd in the league standings, just four points behind the leading team from Lorient. "Never say never... There will be time to sit down and think during the holidays," added Ismaël Traoré. This season, Traoré has played 17 matches in Ligue 2, scoring two goals and providing one assist. He was named "Grenat of the Month" for August 2024.