African MVP of the weekend: Ellyes Skhiri takes charge

Ellyes Skhiri made a big impression on the Bundesliga's return. On matchday 16 of the German championship this Saturday, 21 January 2023, Cologne demolished Werder Bremen 7-1. The Tunisian midfielder scored twice (30th, 54th), his first two goals of the season. He also provided an assist for the first goal. The Eagle of Carthage has now played 15 games, all as a starter. This season, the former Montpellier man has only been substituted once, and that was in this game against Bremen (67th minute).

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Against Bremen, Ellyes Skhiri put in a monstrous performance. Beyond his two goals, the 27-year-old was everywhere. He covered 10 kilometres and won 80% of his duels. Skhiri also completed 90% of his passes. A masterclass that ended after he took a knock to the ankle. His coach Steffen Baumgart therefore took him off to protect him ahead of the big game away at Bayern on Tuesday 24 January (matchday 17).

Time for the big move?

Ellyes Skhiri's performances are no longer a surprise to Bundesliga fans. What is surprising, though, is that he is playing his fourth season with Cologne. No disrespect to the side currently 11th in the German league (20 pts), but the player who developed at Montpellier could make plenty of bigger clubs very happy. Indeed, in France he does not seem to have been forgotten, as Lyon are in the picture.

Recently, Cologne's sporting director addressed the matter. Christian Keller told Express: "If something comes up and Ellyes finds it interesting, we have to think about it. But I would be happy if nothing happens - then we have nothing to worry about." However, the club face a problem: they absolutely must sell him this winter or risk seeing him leave on a free next summer. Because yes, Ellyes Skhiri has a contract that runs until... June 2023.