Sikou Niakaté, born on 10 July 1999 (age 27), is a Mali international central defender with SC Braga. He came through at Valenciennes, where his first senior football gave him a practical grounding before the wider moves started.
His switch to Guingamp was followed by an important loan back to Valenciennes, a sensible enough route for a young centre-half who needed minutes rather than promises. Further loan football in France helped keep him moving, with Metz becoming another step in a career built more by steady exposure than sudden arrival.
Braga then gave him a platform in Portugal. His most productive league season came in 2022-23, when he scored three goals in 26 league appearances for the club. His current market value is around £7m, according to Transfermarkt.
Niakaté has also been involved with Mali this season, making seven appearances in African World Cup qualifying. His career to this point has been shaped by loans, gradual senior experience and a settled role at Braga.
📈 Key stats and insights
