Yvan Zaddy: Auxerre offer professional deal to Ivory Coast youngster

French Ligue 1 outfit AJ Auxerre have offered a first professional contract to Ivory Coast youngster Yvan Zaddy.

The 19-year-old midfielder, who joined the club two years ago, from the Centre d’Apprentissage de Football (CEAF), founded by Olivier Kapo in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, has signed a 3-year contract until June 2029.

🔗 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒙𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑨𝒖𝒙𝒆𝒓𝒓𝒆-𝑨𝒃𝒊𝒅𝒋𝒂𝒏 🇨🇮#TeamAJA #FormationAJA pic.twitter.com/QM2NTK5qP0

— AJ Auxerre (@AJA) April 28, 2026

He will continue his development with the aim of commanding a regular shirt with the Les Ajaïstes who are seated in the relegation playoff zone.

A statement by the club announcing the short ceremony read.

Zaddy earns first professional contract

“AJ Auxerre is delighted to announce the signing of Yvan Zaddy’s first professional contract.

“The 19-year-old midfielder, who joined the club in 2024 from the Centre d’Apprentissage de Football (CEAF), founded by Olivier Kapo in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, has signed until June 2029.

“Initially a key member of our reserve team, Yvan also made his professional debut this season, thanks to his talent, attentiveness, and dedication.

“He first appeared in December 2025 against Monaco in the Coupe de France, and then on the pitch against FC Metz during Matchday 22 of Ligue 1 McDonald’s.”

Zaddy was a key member of Auxerre’s reserve team however his talent earned him a debut with the senior side last year.

He first appeared in December 2025 against Monaco in the Coupe de France, and then on the pitch against FC Metz during Matchday 22 of the Ligue 1.

Auxerre look certain to finish in the relegation playoff zone of 16th on the league with 25 points from 31 matches.

They lead 17th place Nantes by five points with three games to end the Ligue 1 season.

Their next fixture is at home against Angers in match week 32 on Sunday, May 3, a game they need to win to keep their chances of staying above the drop alive.