The Ivory Coast squad for AFCON 2025 has been confirmed, with Wilfried Zaha earning a surprise recall after a two-year absence, while Nicolas Pepe and Simon Adingra miss out.
The Ivory Coast squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations has officially been named — and it includes one of the biggest surprises of the tournament buildup. Wilfried Zaha, absent from national team duty since 2023, has been recalled as the defending champions prepare for a difficult title defence in Group F.
Wilfried Zaha Returns
Zaha, now 33 and on loan at MLS side Charlotte FC, had fallen out of Ivory Coast contention following disagreements with former coach Patrice Beaumelle. His omission from the triumphant 2023 AFCON squad appeared to signal a permanent end to his international involvement.
But new coach Emerse Fae revealed he spent months reopening communication with the winger, convinced that Zaha’s unpredictability and experience could still elevate the attack. The forward has been training in England during the MLS off-season and impressed national team staff enough to secure a place in the Ivory Coast squad.
“We saw that we need experienced players,” Fae said on national TV. “Zaha’s ability to beat defenders and his current form worked in his favour.”
ALSO READ: Champions League Roundup: All the Key Results From December 9
Major Omissions: Nicolas Pepe and Simon Adingra Miss Out
While Zaha returns, two big names are missing from the Ivory Coast squad.
Nicolas Pepe, formerly Arsenal’s record signing and currently at Villarreal, has been left out despite steady appearances in La Liga. Pepe missed recent international camps, and Fae opted to move forward with other wide options.
Simon Adingra, hero of the 2023 final, is another notable absence. The Sunderland winger has struggled for minutes this season, starting just four league matches. Competition for attacking roles ultimately pushed him out of the selection.
“Simon has faced fierce competition for his position,” Fae explained. “He’s struggling to earn a starting spot at his club.”
Amad Diallo Included After Strong Form at Manchester United
Manchester United star Amad Diallo is among the most prominent names in the 26-man group. A regular starter under Ruben Amorim, Amad has featured in 14 Premier League games this season and earned his call-up through consistent performances.
His final match before joining the Ivory Coast squad will be against Bournemouth on Monday. Should Ivory Coast reach the final on January 18, Amad could miss up to seven matches for United — including the Manchester derby.
Sebastien Haller, match-winner in the 2024 AFCON final, is also included. Defender Wilfried Singo, however, has been ruled out through injury.
Ivory Coast Set for Group F Challenge
With the Ivory Coast squad confirmed, focus now shifts to their group-stage opener against Mozambique on December 24 in Marrakech. They will also face Cameroon and Gabon in what is expected to be one of the most competitive groups of the tournament.
Full Ivory Coast Squad
Goalkeepers:
Yahia Fofana, Mohamed Kone, Alban Lafont
Defenders:
Emmanuel Agbadou, Willy Boly, Ousmane Diomande, Guela Doue, Ghislain Konan, Odilon Kossounou, Evan Ndicka, Christopher Operi, Armel Zohouri
Midfielders:
Seko Fofana, Jean-Philippe Gbamin, Christ Inao Oulai, Franck Kessie, Ibrahim Sangare, Jean-Michael Seri
Forwards:
Vakoun Bayo, Oumar Diakite, Amad Diallo, Yan Diomande, Sebastien Haller, Jean-Philippe Krasso, Bazoumana Toure, Wilfried Zaha
Reserves:
Evann Guessand, Guiagon Parfait
