Franck Kessié’s Net Worth: How Much the Ivorian Midfield Star Is Worth

Franck Kessié is a professional footballer from Ivory Coast with an estimated net worth of $40 million. He is known for his strength, energy, and tactical awareness in midfield. Kessié usually plays as a defensive or central midfielder. He currently plays for Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League and is also an important member of the Ivory Coast national team.

Over the years, Kessié has played for several top clubs in Europe before moving to Saudi Arabia. His career journey includes spells at Atalanta, AC Milan, and FC Barcelona. One of his proudest moments came in 2023 when he helped Ivory Coast win the Africa Cup of Nations, defeating Nigeria 2–1 in the final. His club success, international achievements, and high-paying contracts have all contributed to his growing wealth.

Big Move to Saudi Arabia and Salary Increase

In August 2023, Franck Kessié made a major career decision by leaving Barcelona to join Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia. This move came with a huge financial benefit. Before leaving Europe, Kessié was earning around $10 million per year. After signing with Al-Ahli, his salary doubled to about $20 million per year.

This contract made him one of the highest-paid African footballers at the time. The Saudi Pro League has attracted many global stars by offering large salaries, and Kessié became one of those players who chose financial security alongside competitive football. His earnings from this deal play a big role in his current net worth.

Early Life and Childhood Background

Franck Yannick Kessié was born on December 19, 1996, in Ouragahio, a town in Ivory Coast. His father was once a professional footballer before later joining the Ivorian army. Growing up, Franck faced many challenges, including financial difficulties. Despite this, football remained his passion and escape.

As a young boy, Kessié looked up to Ivorian football legend Yaya Touré. Touré’s success inspired him to believe that he could also rise from humble beginnings to become a global football star. Franck’s determination and discipline helped him stay focused on his dream.

Beginning of His Football Career

Kessié started his football development in 2010 when he joined the youth academy of Stella Club d’Adjamé, one of Ivory Coast’s well-known teams. After four years of training and improvement, he was promoted to the club’s senior team. His performances quickly attracted attention from scouts outside Africa.

In January 2015, Kessié signed a three-year contract with Atalanta, an Italian Serie A club. At first, he played for Atalanta’s under-19 team, known as the Primavera squad. In April 2015, he was included in the senior team squad for a match against Roma, although he did not play.

Loan Spell and Rise at Atalanta

In August 2015, Kessié was sent on a one-year loan to AC Cesena, a Serie B club in Italy. He made his debut as a substitute and later became a regular starter. During that season, he played 37 matches and scored four goals, showing his strength, stamina, and ability to control the midfield.

After the loan ended, he returned to Atalanta, where coach Gian Piero Gasperini promoted him to the first team. Kessié quickly became an important player and later extended his contract with the club until 2021. His strong performances in Serie A made him one of the most promising midfielders in Italy.

Success Years with AC Milan

In June 2017, Kessié joined AC Milan on a two-year loan deal. His impact was immediate. He helped the club win key European qualification matches and became a key figure in the midfield. Although Milan lost the Coppa Italia and Supercoppa Italiana finals, Kessié remained one of their most reliable players.

The 2020–21 season was especially impressive. AC Milan finished second in Serie A, and Kessié scored 13 goals, many of them from penalties. His performances helped the club qualify for the UEFA Champions League. Many fans and football experts named him Milan’s player of the season due to his leadership and consistency.

Move to Barcelona and Key Moment

In May 2022, Kessié announced that he would leave AC Milan. Two months later, he signed a four-year contract with FC Barcelona, with a very high release clause of €500 million. While his time at Barcelona was shorter than expected, he still delivered memorable moments.

One of his biggest highlights came in March 2023, when he scored the winning goal against Real Madrid in a crucial match. That goal made him a fan favorite and showed his ability to perform in big games.

Joining Al-Ahli and International Glory

In August 2023, Kessié officially joined Al-Ahli on a contract reportedly worth €12.5 million per year. He continued to play at a high level while also earning one of the biggest salaries of his career.

At the international level, Kessié has been a regular player for the Ivory Coast national team. His biggest achievement with the team came in 2023, when Ivory Coast won the Africa Cup of Nations. The victory was special because it happened on home soil, and Kessié played a key role throughout the tournament.

Personal Life and Beliefs

Franck Kessié is a Muslim and openly practices his faith. He observes fasting during Ramadan, even during the football season. His faith plays an important role in his life and discipline.

When Kessié was just 11 years old, he lost his father to illness. His father had served in the Ivorian army, and Franck honors him in a special way. After scoring goals, Kessié often performs a military salute, which is a tribute to his late father.

Awards and Achievements

Kessié has received several individual honors. He was named the top assist provider at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2019. In 2023, he was selected for the AFCON Team of the Tournament. He was also chosen for the Serie A Team of the Year for the 2020–21 season, highlighting his influence during his time at AC Milan.