Gideon Mensah joins Cologne from Auxerre
Ghana international Gideon Mensah has completed a move to Cologne, signing a two-year contract with the Bundesliga club.
Left-back Mensah started all five games during Ghana's run to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32.
The 27-year-old was available on a free transfer after his four-year contract with French club Auxerre expired at the end of the 2025/26 season.
"We have been looking at Gideon for a longer period of time and are pleased that we could convince him to join Cologne," expressed managing director Thomas Kessler. "He brings international experience to the table, put in strong performances in France last season and showed just that at the World Cup as well.
"Gideon is a player that always puts the team first and has a high-level of tactical discipline, plenty of defensive strengths and brings a real dynamic onto the pitch. His profile will give our squad increased stability and quality, increasing our options at this position even further."
Mensah made 114 competitive appearances for Auxerre and has also played in France with Bordeaux, as well as gaining European experience in Austria, Belgium and Portugal.
"The sporting perspective that the club showed me was also a big reason [behind my decision]," explained Mensah. "I obviously looked into the city and heard a lot about the incredible support of the Cologne fans, and I’m really looking forward to that."
Cologne finished three points clear of the relegation zone in their first season back in the Bundesliga after earning promotion as Bundesliga 2 champions.
The Billy Goats begin their first full campaign under head coach René Wagner with a DFB Cup first-round trip to Würzburger Kickers on 24 August, before hosting Hoffenheim in their opening Bundesliga match of the 2026/27 season on 29 August.
