After missing the previous three international windows, Sebastien Haller has been called up to the Côte d’Ivoire team for their forthcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Burundi and Gambia.
Due to injuries and conditioning issues, the Borussia Dortmund striker, who is presently on loan at FC Utrecht, had not been included in the national team lineup.
As the Elephants look to increase their lead at the top of their qualification group, his return strengthens a potent attacking squad.
Jean-Philippe Gbamin, a midfielder who last appeared for the national team in March 2023, is another important addition.
Now back in the lineup at FC Zurich, Gbamin is making the most of Jean Michaël Seri’s injury.
After being absent from the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, Ibrahim Sangaré also rejoins the team.
Seko Fofana, who has been benched owing to fitness issues, is replaced by the Nottingham Forest midfielder.
The decision was made by “mutual agreement” as the midfield player recovers from recent physical setbacks, according to coach Emerse Faé.
The group also includes 23-year-old Clément Akpa, a versatile left-back for AJ Auxerre who has played for the nation at the U23 level, receiving his first-ever senior call-up.
Wilfried Zaha, a winger for Galatasaray, and Amad Diallo of Manchester United are still out because of injuries.
Under Faé, Zaha, who recently joined MLS team Charlotte FC, has not yet made an appearance.
Reims forward Oumar Diakité keeps his spot despite suffering for club form, while Genoa’s Maxwel Cornet has not been called up despite his impressive Serie A performances.
The team has well-known players like Evan Ndicka, Wilfried Singo, Simon Adingra, and Franck Kessié, who were all instrumental in Côte d’Ivoire’s AFCON-winning campaign.
The Elephants lead Gabon by one point and are presently leading their World Cup qualifying group.
Côte d’Ivoire Squad for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers
Goalkeepers:
Yahia Fofana, Mohamed Koné, Ali Badra
Defenders:
Emmanuel Agbadou, Clément Akpa, Willy Boly, Ousmane Diomandé, Guéla Doué, Evan Ndicka , Hassane Kamara, Wilfried Singo
Midfielders:
Jean Aholou, Jean-Philippe Gbamin, Ibrahim Sangaré, Franck Kessié, Hamed Traoré
Forwards:
Simon Adingra, Vakoun Bayo, Oumar Diakité, Evann Guessand, Jean Krasso, Nicolas Pépé, Benié Traoré, Sébastien Haller