Ibrahima Cissé is an 18-year-old Senegalese striker who plays for KAA Gent in the Belgian Pro League. This report is based on his debut professional season, featuring both U23 and first-team football, where he was mainly used as a substitute. Across 12 top-flight appearances (112 minutes), he scored one goal. 

Standing at 1.96 m with a slender, lanky frame, Cissé’s physical profile is already his standout attribute. His hold-up play is his most important strength, particularly when receiving under pressure with his back to goal, where he is able to absorb contact and secure possession before releasing simple lay-offs. He is also dominant in aerial duels, winning the majority of his headers, and uses his frame effectively in physical contests. He is right-footed and rarely uses his weaker left foot, which can limit his options under pressure. Despite his height, he shows surprising agility over short distances and uses his long stride effectively when accelerating into space, which also makes him a threat when attacking depth. 

In possession, Cissé is most effective through his ability to secure the ball under pressure and link play. While he is reliable in holding off defenders and playing simple combinations, he can lose control when attempting to turn out of pressure with his back to goal, particularly in tight or physical situations. As a result, he generally favours quick release rather than extended carries in congested areas. He is also a threat when attacking space, where his stride and acceleration allow him to carry the ball forward and impact transitions. His close control remains inconsistent when receiving under pressure, which can limit his ability to retain possession cleanly in tight areas. His ball striking and finishing inside the box are clear strengths, as he can generate power in his shots and finish efficiently in central areas, often using simple feints to wrong-foot defenders. At times, his final action still lacks clarity, as he does not always anticipate his next decision quickly enough after receiving the ball. 

Out of possession, Cissé operates both as a depth threat and an advanced reference point. He makes runs in behind to stretch defensive lines and is a major aerial outlet, consistently winning his duels and helping his team regain or retain possession. He contributes with energy in pressing situations and shows willingness to work without the ball, although he can be more proactive in initiating pressure and demanding the ball in build-up phases. When play is direct, he offers a reliable target, but becomes less influential when the game is more congested or when he is forced into deeper areas. 

Overall, Cissé offers a physically imposing striker profile with clear attacking potential. His aerial dominance, hold-up ability, and finishing inside the box provide a strong foundation, while his mobility and stride make him a threat in transition. However, his technical consistency in tight spaces, body coordination, and decision-making in the final action remain key development areas.