Ivory Coast head coach, Emerse Fae has revealed his squad for the 2025 African Cup of Nations, with notable inclusions and some surprising omissions.
Among the major headlines is the return of star winger Wilfried Zaha, who had previously been in a strained relationship with Fae.
Zaha, who missed the 2023 tournament, extended an apology for past issues, paving the way for his inclusion in the squad.
However, the squad also sees some unexpected absences, with Nicolas Pépé, Simon Adingra, Wilfried Singo, and Bénie Traoré left out.
The exclusion of Adingra is particularly shocking, given his pivotal role in the team’s triumph in 2023.
His absence has raised eyebrows among fans and pundits alike.
The Elephants, current AFCON champions, have been placed in Group F alongside Cameroon, Gabon, and Mozambique.
With expectations high, the Ivorian squad is under pressure to defend their title, especially following their successful FIFA World Cup qualification.
Full Squad
Goalkeepers:
Yahia Fofana, Mohamed Koné, Alban Lafont
Defenders:
Emmanuel Agbadou, Boly Willy, Ousmane Diomandé, Guela Doué, Ghislain Konan, Odilon Kossounou, Evan Ndicka, Christopher Operi, Armel Zouhouri
Midfielders:
Seko Fofana, Jean-Philippe Gbamin, Christ Inao Oulaï, Franck Kessié, Ibrahim Sangaré, Jean-Michael Seri
Forwards:
Vakoun Bayo, Oumar Diakité, Amad Diallo, Yan Diomande, Sébastien Haller, Jean-Philippe Krasso, Bazoumama Touré, Wilfried Zaha
The Ivory Coast will kick off their defense of the AFCON title against Mozambique, before facing Cameroon, and wrapping up group play against Gabon.
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With the team’s strong squad and high expectations, all eyes will be on the Elephants as they aim to make history once again.
As reigning champions, Ivory Coast’s squad is poised to make a deep run in the tournament, with the blend of experienced players, including Wilfried Zaha, Sébastien Haller, and Franck Kessié, putting them in a strong position to defend their crown.
After securing their spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Elephants are expected to not only advance deep into the AFCON tournament but also make a statement by defending their title.
