Ivory Coast midfielder Seko Fofana has returned to FC Porto on loan from French club Rennes for the 2026-27 season.
The Portuguese club confirmed the 31-year-old’s return on Wednesday, bringing the midfielder back just months after he completed his first spell with the Dragons.
Fofana initially joined Porto on loan between February and May during the 2025-26 season, making 18 appearances and scoring three goals.
His performances were enough to convince Porto to bring him back, with the Ivorian now set to continue his career in Portugal and compete in the Champions League under new manager Francesco Farioli.
“Seko Fofana is once again on loan from Rennes. The Ivorian midfielder’s adventure at FC Porto is not over – in fact, it’s only just beginning. After joining the team under Francesco Farioli between February and May, the 31-year-old midfielder returns to the club on loan from the French club Stade Rennais until the end of the season,” FC Porto announced.
The latest agreement means Fofana will once again leave Rennes temporarily and spend the season with Porto.
His return provides continuity for a player who made a positive impression during his first few months in Portugal. Fofana quickly became part of Porto’s plans after arriving in February and ended his initial spell with three goals from 18 matches.
He will now have the opportunity to build on that contribution while taking part in European football’s premier club competition.
The Champions League will represent an important new challenge for Fofana during his second spell at Porto. His experience could also prove valuable to a squad preparing for a demanding season under Farioli.
For the Ivorian international, the return to Porto gives him another opportunity to play at a high level while remaining with a club where he has already adapted to the environment.
Fofana previously made his name in European football during spells with clubs including Lens before moving through different leagues and eventually joining Rennes.
His first Porto spell came after his move to the French club, but rather than remaining in France for the new campaign, he will again spend the season in Portugal.
The decision also means Rennes will once more part company with the midfielder on a temporary basis.
Porto’s announcement confirms that the arrangement is another loan rather than a permanent transfer. Fofana is therefore expected to remain with the Portuguese club until the end of the season.
His return comes with expectations raised by what he produced during his first stint.
Three goals in 18 matches gave Porto an encouraging return from the midfielder, and the club has now opted to give him another opportunity to contribute.
Fofana’s experience at international level with Ivory Coast adds another dimension to Porto’s squad, particularly as the club prepares to compete domestically and in Europe.
For the 31-year-old, the move represents a chance to extend his stay in a country where he has already shown he can make an impact.
Porto will hope his familiarity with the club allows him to settle quickly and contribute under Farioli without the adjustment period normally required by a new signing.
