Ankle injury sidelines Skhiri until 2027, Kessler has "no plans" to find cover

The Tunisian endured a nasty ankle injury in Sunday's derby win over Gladbach but likely won't feature again until 2027.

Photo: Lars Baron/Getty Images.

Even after Ellyes Skhiri's injury amid 1.FC Köln's Rhinederby win over Gladbach, the club intends to remain silent in the transfer market.

Köln sporting director Thomas Kessler has since confirmed this to BILD, claiming "there are no plans to sign a free agent.”

Skhiri had to leave the field at half-time, suffering an ankle injury and will not be able to return to action until after the New Year.

The 31-year-old only returned to Köln from Eintracht Frankfurt in August costing €1million and instantly became a key anchor in midfield. 

In addition to the Tunisian, strikers Ragnar Ache (muscular problems) and Thijs Dallinga (ACL tear) are also sidelined long-term. 

Despite their personnel already growing thin in places, Köln does not intend to find reinforcements before the winter break .