It was expected, and now it’s official. FC Metz confirmed on Tuesday the departure of Fodé Ballo-Touré at the end of the 2025-2026 season, at the conclusion of his contract. The Moselle club has included the Senegalese left-back in the list of players released this summer, marking the end of his time in the garnet colors. This decision is part of a restructuring of the squad, highlighted by several simultaneous departures.
Brought to Moselle with the aim of reviving a faltering career, the defender failed to establish himself consistently in the rotation. Despite opportunities throughout the season, he couldn’t secure a long-term starting position. The 28-year-old leaves the club without fully meeting the sporting expectations placed on him at the time of his signing.
Statistically, Fodé Ballo-Touré participated in 13 Ligue 1 matches last season, including 11 as a starter. He racked up 843 minutes of play, a relatively limited amount that reflects his secondary role in the Metz squad. Primarily used on the left flank of defense, he alternated between starting and sitting on the bench, failing to string together decisive performances.
Trained at Paris Saint-Germain, the left-back then continued his development at LOSC Lille, where he made a name for himself at the top level. His performances earned him a move to AS Monaco, a significant step in his career, before he took another leap by signing with AC Milan in 2021. In Italy, he faced stiff competition that limited his playing time, before being loaned out several times in the following seasons.
Now a free agent, Fodé Ballo-Touré finds himself at a crossroads in his career. Several options are available for his next move, whether in France or abroad. At 28, he has significant experience at the European top level, along with a career marked by stints at leading clubs. His future will now depend on the opportunities that arise in the summer transfer market and the sporting project that can convince him.
FC Metz announced on Tuesday the departure of Fodé Ballo-Touré! pic.twitter.com/81jOkMdmDG
— 13football_com (@13footballC) June 30, 2026
