Ghana international Gideon Mensah has said his final goodbye to French outfit AJ Auxerre following his departure from the club.The 27-year-old enterprising left-back leaves Auxerre as a free agent following the expiration of his contract at the end of last season, bringing an end to his four-year spell at the club.During his four-year spell at Auxerre, Mensah made 108 appearances across all competitions, registering four assists while playing a key role in the clubs promotion to Ligue 1 and their subsequent survival in the French top flight.However, the defender has taken to social media to express gratitude to the French outfit for the support throughout his stay in France.After four unforgettable years, the time has come to say goodbye. Leaving this club with a heart filled with gratitude. Wearing this jersey has been a real honor, and I have always given my all for this emblemTo my teammates, coaches, staff and everyone in the shadows: Thank you for your trust, support and helping me grow as a player and person. To the supporters, thank you for being with me from day 1Your passion, loyalty, and unwavering support have made every moment even more special. I will always treasure the moments we sharedAs I embark on a new chapter, I leave with nothing but respect, appreciation and love for this club. He’ll always have a special place in my heart. Thanks for four incredible years. This is not goodbye, but see you soon he concluded.Meanwhile, Mensah has travelled to Germany to complete his transfer to Bundesliga side FC Koln in the current summer transfer window.Koln are securing the services of the enterprising Black Stars left-back following his impressive performances during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Ghanas campaign came to an end in the Round of 32.GHANAsoccernet.com understands the former West African Football Academy (WAFA) defender has already departed for Germany, where he is expected to undergo a medical examination before completing the final paperwork on his move.The Ghana international has agreed a four-year contract that will keep him at FC Koln until June 2029, with the deal set to be signed once he successfully completes his mandatory medical.Koln have identified Mensah as a key addition to strengthen their squad ahead of the new Bundesliga campaign as they look to make impact. His pace, defensive discipline and attacking threat from the left flank made him one of the clubs priority targets this summer.His arrival is expected to add valuable experience, leadership and quality to Kolns backline, with the defender bringing years of top-flight football from France, Austria and European competitions.On the international stage, the former Red Bull Salzburg defender has earned 44 caps for Ghana since making his senior debut in 2019. He has featured prominently at the Africa Cup of Nations and most recently played a key role in the Black Stars run to the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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Ghana defender Gideon Mensah bids emotional farewell to AJ Auxerre ahead of FC Koln switch
