Kolo Toure has a worthwhile reputation as a disciplined and focused footballer, both for his club Manchester City and Ivory Coast national team. Called the 'Defence Minister' back home, he combines pace, strength and athleticism to mount his right back position, thus carving a true image for himself as a solid defender. 

Kolo was part of the first batch produced by Asec’s football academy Mimosifcom in 1999. The squad had stunned many across Africa, after winning the CAF Super Cup that same year against Tunisia giants Esperance de Tunis. He was one of the few youngsters who brokered a deal with a European big club right from home, when he signed a £150,000 contract in 2002 with Arsenal. 

After establishing himself as one of the best centre backs in the Premier League across eight seasons, Toure moved to Manchester City on a £12 million deal.

Internationally, Kolo has always fought to keep the Elephants’ back line from being too porous although he has come under lots of criticism for lack of concentration and a series of avoidable errors. But no Ivorian can even imagine a World Cup list without Kolo Toure. 

Did You Know?

Kolo’s brother at Barcelona, Yaya Toure says he calls Kolo every now and then to get advice for the smallest things.

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