Kylian Kouassi will not feature again for Blackpool this season, with manager Steve Bruce delivering a candid update on the striker’s recovery from a hamstring injury.
The 21-year-old, currently on loan at Salford City, returned to Blackpool last month to begin rehabilitation at Squires Gate following his latest setback. Although surgery has not been required this time, Bruce admitted the forward’s road to recovery is still long.
Injury history a growing concern
This latest issue continues a worrying trend for Kouassi, who also underwent surgery on the same muscle last summer after a season-ending injury. He had made 31 appearances in all competitions for Salford this term, scoring three times and adding two assists, before the problem resurfaced.
“He’s here, he’s not trained with the group but he’s on the grass. He’s still got a long, long way to go. He’s had a nasty tear of his hamstring, so we’ll have to box clever with that, and I don’t think he’ll be ready until next season if I’m being brutally honest. I would expect him back for pre-season.”
Bruce also confirmed the club is managing Kouassi carefully, with the player working individually on fitness and strength. While the medical team remains cautious, the hope is that he can return in full health for the 2025/26 pre-season campaign.
Salford are believed to be disappointed by the outcome of the loan, given the limited availability of the player over the final stretch. However, Bruce stressed that injuries are an unavoidable part of the game, particularly with young players still developing physically.
During his debut season with Blackpool in 2023/24, Kouassi netted five goals and registered two assists across 24 appearances, having joined from Sutton United on a free transfer. Despite flashes of potential, injuries have so far disrupted any consistent run of form.
Writer’s view
Kouassi’s continued struggles are a concern for both Blackpool and the player himself. At 21, his potential is evident, but staying fit is becoming the key battle. Bruce’s honesty about the timeline offers clarity, and with a full pre-season the target, Blackpool’s focus now must be on long-term fitness. Salford’s disappointment is understandable, but Kouassi still has time to get his career back on track—if the club can finally keep him on the pitch.
