The South African defender returned to Hannover 96 for pre-season after his impressive FIFA World Cup campaign, with teammates making sure he felt right at home.
Germany (22 July 2026) – South African defender Ime Okon has received a warm welcome back at Hannover 96 as he rejoins the German club following an unforgettable FIFA World Cup campaign with Bafana Bafana.
A video shared by the league captured the moment Okon arrived for pre-season, with teammates greeting him with hugs, smiles and plenty of excitement after his extended break following the tournament.
The reception spoke volumes about the impression the young defender has made both on and off the pitch since joining the German outfit last year.
Okon now shifts his focus from international football back to club duty, with Hannover 96 already well underway with preparations for the 2026/27 2. Bundesliga season.
The German side has spent the past few weeks in pre-season, completing several friendly matches while head coach Christian Titz puts the squad through an intensive training programme ahead of the new campaign
It marks the beginning of another important chapter after playing his part in Bafana Bafana’s memorable FIFA World Cup run, where the South Africans captured the attention of football fans around the globe.
While the World Cup memories will last a lifetime, it’s now back to business in Germany.
Watch the video here.
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