Paul Akouokou

Edgar Paul Akouokou (born 20 December 1997) is an Ivorian professional footballer who plays as a defensive midfielder for Ligue 1 club Lyon and the Ivory Coast national team.

Early career
Akouokou started his career with Finnish side Ekenäs IF in 2016, playing in the second-tier level Ykkönen. In January 2017, he went on a trial at Ligue 1 side Angers SCO.

On 27 August 2017, Akouokou moved to Israeli Premier League side Beitar Jerusalem on a loan deal until May 2018. After being sparingly used, he moved to Hapoel Rishon LeZion of the Liga Leumit in following February, also on loan.

Betis
On 21 November 2018, Akouokou left Finland after agreeing to a deal with La Liga side Real Betis for an undisclosed fee; he was initially assigned to the club's reserve team in Tercera División. On 10 September 2020, after helping the B-team to achieve a promotion to Segunda División B, he renewed his contract with Betis until 2024, and was promoted to the first team.

Akouokou made his La Liga debut on 20 September 2020, replacing goalscorer William Carvalho late into a 2–0 home win over Real Valladolid.

Lyon
On 1 September 2023, Akouokou signed a four-year contract with Ligue 1 side Lyon. Transfer fee was announced to be €3 million and Betis have a sell-on clause.

Honours
Betis
 * Copa del Rey: 2021–22

Lyon
 * Coupe de France runner-up: 2023–24