Ivory Coast head coach Hervé Renard has handed eight players their first senior national team call-ups ahead of the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Ghana and Somalia.
The new faces form part of Renard’s squad as the Elephants prepare for a crucial qualifying double-header, with the coach turning to a blend of emerging talent and players making their mark at clubs across Europe and beyond.
Among those receiving their maiden senior invitations are Beşiktaş defender Kassoum Ouattara and Amadou Koné of Saudi Arabian side Neom SC. France-based players Christ Tapé of Toulouse, Patrick Zabi of Paris FC and Rayan Fofana of Le Havre have also been included.
The squad further features Coventry City forward Yann Gboho, Portuguese-based midfielder Eddy Doué of Estrela da Amadora and Brighton & Hove Albion youngster Malick Yalcouyé, all of whom will have the opportunity to make their senior international debuts.
The call-ups underline Renard’s approach of introducing new options into the Ivorian setup as the reigning African champions continue their preparations for the AFCON qualifying campaign.
Ivory Coast’s upcoming fixtures against Ghana and Somalia will provide the eight newcomers with their first opportunity to work with the senior national team and potentially earn competitive appearances for the Elephants.
