Le Havre part ways with Koka and Ballo-Touré

Le Havre has announced the departure of striker Ahmed Hassan “Koka” and defender Fodé Ballo-Touré following the conclusion of their short-term contracts with the club. The Normandy-based side had signed both African players in January to help secure their Ligue 1 status for the 2025/26 season.

Kouka and Ballo-Touré played key roles in helping Le Havre avoid relegation but saw their contracts go unrenewed.

Air Hassan 🇪🇬🛩️ pic.twitter.com/LLsw9I2zWI

— Ligue 1 McDonald’s (@Ligue1) April 29, 2025

Kouka, 32, joined the French side from Portuguese club Rio Ave and scored three goals in 16 appearances. The former Olympiacos forward is particularly remembered for his match-winning goals against rivals Lens and Lille.

Ballo-Touré arrived from AC Milan and made 10 appearances during his brief stint with Le Havre. The 28-year-old Senegalese left-back previously played for Monaco and Lille and was part of AC Milan’s Serie A title-winning squad.

Le Havre thanked both players in an official statement, expressing appreciation for their contributions during the campaign.