Tunisian international Ellyes Skhiri has returned to FC Köln after agreeing a move from Eintracht Frankfurt that will keep him at the German club until the summer of 2028.
The 31-year-old midfielder has rejoined the club where he previously spent four successful seasons, with Cologne reaching an agreement with Frankfurt for his return.
German reports put the transfer fee at between €1.5m and €2m.
Skhiri’s comeback marks the latest chapter in a career that has already seen him establish himself as an experienced Bundesliga midfielder. Cologne believe his familiarity with the club and German football will strengthen their midfield, while his experience is also expected to make him an influential figure within the squad.
The Tunisia international previously represented Cologne between 2019 and 2023 after joining from French club Montpellier.
During his first spell, Skhiri quickly became an important member of the team, making 118 official appearances and scoring 17 goals.
His performances made him one of Cologne’s most prominent players during that period.
Skhiri returns after Frankfurt spell
Skhiri left Cologne in the summer of 2023 when his contract expired and subsequently joined Eintracht Frankfurt on a free transfer.
He spent three seasons with Frankfurt in the Bundesliga, but his situation at the club changed during the latter stages of his spell.
That decline opened the door for a return to Cologne, where the midfielder had previously enjoyed one of the strongest periods of his career in Germany.
The possibility of a reunion had been developing for several weeks before the two clubs reached an agreement.
Cologne entered advanced negotiations with both Skhiri and Frankfurt, with discussions eventually progressing to the details of his salary and the length of his new contract.
An agreement was ultimately reached, allowing Skhiri to return to the RheinEnergieStadion.
The deal with Cologne runs until 2028, giving the Tunisian a long-term opportunity to rebuild his position as an important player in German football.
Cologne count on experience
Skhiri’s return is expected to provide more than just an additional midfield option.
Cologne are looking to use the player’s extensive experience to add greater stability to their midfield, while his previous knowledge of the club means he should require less time to adapt to his surroundings.
The midfielder has also accumulated considerable Bundesliga experience during his spells with Cologne and Frankfurt.
His international career with Tunisia is another factor that could increase his importance within the squad.
At 31, Skhiri is expected to take on a leadership role, using his experience at club and international level to help the team.
For Cologne, bringing back a player who already understands the club and the demands of German football represents an opportunity to add experience without the uncertainty that can accompany a completely new signing.
New beginning for Skhiri
The move also offers Skhiri the chance to revive his career after a difficult period at Frankfurt.
His return to Cologne gives him an environment in which he has previously performed at a high level and established himself as a key figure.
The midfielder will also be able to maintain his involvement in German football while preparing for upcoming commitments with the Tunisian national team.
His previous record at Cologne provides a strong foundation for the return.
In his first spell, Skhiri made 118 appearances and scored 17 goals, becoming an important part of the team before leaving for Frankfurt in 2023.
Now, two years after departing on a free transfer, he will return to the same club with a contract that extends until 2028.
Cologne hope the reunion can bring greater experience and consistency to their midfield, while Skhiri will be looking to rediscover the form that made him such an influential player during his first spell.
The transfer therefore represents a fresh start for the Tunisian rather than simply a return to a familiar club.
After three seasons at Frankfurt, Skhiri has opted for another chapter at Cologne, where he previously enjoyed some of his best years in Germany.
His long-term contract gives him the opportunity to rebuild his status at a club where he is already known and valued, while Cologne will expect his experience to play an important part in their plans over the coming seasons.
