Abdoulaye Touré continues to make it clear that Guinea will have to look elsewhere for reinforcements, as the Nantes midfielder remains focused on his ambitions with France. Despite persistent interest from the Guinean Football Federation and ongoing efforts by coach Didier Six, Touré reiterated in a recent interview with Onze Mondial that a call-up from Guinea is not on his agenda.
“For now, it’s not a question I would answer. And the Guinean national team is not a priority in my mind either,” Touré stated, underlining his commitment to his preferred path. Born and raised in France, the midfielder has represented the French national team at all youth levels, giving him a long-standing connection to Les Bleus. For Touré, progressing to the senior French squad represents a natural continuation of his international career.
Touré explained, “It would be a logical next step! Having played in all the youth categories, it would be logical to join the French senior national team. If it happens to me, of course I’ll jump at the chance. I don’t know if he (Deschamps) knows me. In any case, it’s up to me to make sure he knows who Abdoulaye Touré is.” His words reflect both patience and determination, signaling that his focus remains on proving himself at the club level and earning recognition from the French national team coach, Didier Deschamps.
This stance represents a setback for Guinea, whose scouting and recruitment plans under Didier Six had included Touré as a potential midfield anchor. Despite months of monitoring and outreach, the Nantes player remains unwavering, prioritizing the possibility of representing France over switching allegiance to his country of descent. For the Syli, this means redirecting efforts toward other talents who may be more immediately available or willing to commit to the national team.
For Abdoulaye Touré, the decision is consistent with a broader trend among French-born players of African heritage who often weigh their options between their country of birth and their ancestral homeland. While the opportunity to play for Guinea might offer immediate international exposure, Touré appears determined to follow a path that aligns with his long-term career goals, both at the international and club levels.
In summary, despite Guinea’s ongoing courtship, Abdoulaye Touré remains firmly focused on France. His clear stance emphasizes the importance of personal ambition, strategic career planning, and the desire to compete at the highest level of international football, leaving Didier Six and the Syli to pursue alternative midfield options.
