Christian N’Guessan leaves Ebbsfleet United to join League 2 Sutton United

Ebbsfleet have lost just one player from their title-winning squad after completing their unveiling of players who have agreed new deals at the club.

Midfielder Christian N'Guessan is the only player to have turned down the chance to stay at Stonebridge Road, opting instead to move into the Football League after signing for League 2 Sutton United.

N'Guessan, who made 72 appearances for the club, was previously in the EFL at Oldham and was named in the National League South team of the year for 2022/23.

“I would never have gone for a sideways move,” he told the club’s website.

"“I’d never have left Ebbsfleet for someone at the same level. I’m 24, I’ll be 25 during the season, so you only maybe get one chance to take an offer and another crack back in the EFL.

"I feel because of how much I progressed here at Ebbsfleet, it was the right time and I’m ready for that opportunity back in the League. But I’m really so grateful for everything.”

Sutton manager Matt Gray said: "'Christian's a player we've had our eyes on for a while. He's done brilliantly with Ebbsfleet, helping them to the National League South title, and has the potential to make a real impact in League 2.''

There was better news for Ebbsfleet fans, though, with confirmation that striker Dominic Poleon has extended his stay at the club for life in the National League.

Poleon, who will miss the first game of the new campaign due to suspension, told KentOnline in April that he expected to stay at the club.

“I want to stay, for sure,” said Poleon. “I’ve built up a good relationship with the fans, a good relationship with the team. I’m not looking to go anywhere."

The Fleet had already announced the departure of four players following the end of last season. Sido