Ismael Kone published a lengthy article in "The Players' Tribune", reflecting on his career and life, and discussing his recent journey back from injury.

The story of that day

Kone continued: "I felt that warmth when I was taken to the hospital. A physical therapist sat beside me and kept me updated on the game. When I was about to be rushed into the operating room, I felt that warmth as well... I have always been a true football person, you know. I had to gather the surgeons together and say something to them in the locker room. I told them: 'Hey guys, this is all I can give. I have been trying my whole life to be a football player, and I must return to the field for this team. So, let's make this surgery perfect. Please treat me as your brother or son when you operate on me.'"

Finally, the post-operative stage.

After the surgery was finally completed, he wrote: "I also felt that warmth when I walked out of the operating room; it was truly a real wave of support. From my family and friends, of course. From my teammates and coaches, of course. And from the many messages from all over Canada, supporting this team and me, wishing me all the best... I can also feel it firsthand when fans see me on crutches during the game and talk to me. To be honest, I knew there would be support, but the extent of it still shocked me. It touched me deeply and made me feel like I was just a small part of something very special that was happening at that moment."

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