Pepe determined to force Ivory Coast return ahead of 2026 World Cup

Villarreal CF winger Nicolas Pépé has set his sights on a return to the international stage, declaring his unwavering commitment to Ivory Coast ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The former Arsenal man was a notable absentee from Emerse Faé’s squad for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) last December.

The omission sparked widespread debate among supporters and pundits, especially given Pépé’s resurgence in La Liga, where he has revitalized his career since joining Villarreal.

Despite being sidelined for the continental tournament, the 30-year-old insists that his relationship with the national team remains intact.

“When the country calls you, you answer in the present. So if they call me, I will give everything until I die, as they say. Because it’s the homeland and we do everything for the country,” Pepe told Flashscore.

Pépé’s exclusion from the AFCON roster was initially attributed to tactical choices and internal squad dynamics, yet his consistent performances in Spain have made him difficult to ignore.

Since moving to the Estadio de la Cerámica, the winger has regained the explosive pace and clinical finishing that once made him one of Europe’s most expensive players.

His recent form has been a catalyst for Villarreal’s push into the European places, placing him back into the conversation for a spot in Faé’s tactical plans.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, Pépé is determined to prove he still has a vital role to play for the Elephants.

The Ivory Coast, who have already secured their place in the global showpiece, are currently fine-tuning their roster for a challenging Group E featuring Germany, Ecuador, and Curaçao.

For Pépé, the goal is clear: to bridge the gap between his club success and international duty.