A year and half ago, Gent parted with over €7m to make then teenage Momodou Sonko the clubs record signing from Allsvenskan side BK Häcken. Given that the Swedish league operates as a summer league, Sonko rarely featured during his first half season at the club. After a pre-season with Gent, Sonko was ready to go for 2024/2025. However, he struggled to cement a place in the side, having to settle for making most of his 40 appearances off of the bench. He grabbed four goals and three assists during the season, but 2025/2026 feels like a big year for Sonko.
Had Gent not made the Swedish winger their record signing, he would have the luxury of time to really settle into Belgian football. However, €7m is a lot for a Belgian side to spend, and this year Gent really do need Sonko to come good. Clearly their plan would have been for Sonko to flourish in Gent and then the side sell him on for an even larger sum. Prior to joining Gent, Sonko was highly rated after 11 goals and five assists for BK Häcken, with strong performances in the Europa League as well.
Under Ivan Leko, Sonko may well have a coach that can get the best out of him. Leko was forced to play an unusually defensive style with Standard, but at Gent he will have much better attacking options and should revert to his more progressive style of play. Alongside Sonko, Gent have the likes of Franck Surdez, Aime Omgba, Keegan Jelacic and Helio Varela who will all want to play out side. Young Belgian talent Tibe De Vlieger will also be looking to have an impact this season after making 15 appearances last season.
Price tag pressure means Sonko will be expected to beat most of these to playing out on the left wing. If he, and Omgba, can produce the goods, Gent could be looking at a return to European football next season. The likes of Liverpool have been linked with Sonko in the past, and in moments last season it was clear why. A breakout campaign this year and Sonko will be back on the radar of top European sides.
