DR Congo star Axel Tuanzebe, a key player for the Leopards, might find himself on the sidelines for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations after talks with his club.
Sébastien Desabre, the head coach of the DR Congo national team, revealed a surprising development from the preliminary squad, suggesting that Axel Tuanzebe is currently engaged in discussions with the Fédération Congolaise de Football Association (Fécofa).
The purpose of these talks is to explore the possibility of deferring Tuanzebe’s participation from the AFCON 2023, initially scheduled from January 13 to February 11, 2024.
Kieran McKenna, Tuanzebe’s club coach, shared insights into the ongoing discussions, stating, “I had a few discussions with Axel this week.
“From what I understand, for now, he won’t go. But Axel communicates with his federation.I’m sure it will work out.”
This revelation introduces a layer of uncertainty regarding Tuanzebe’s presence in Ivory Coast for the tournament.
As the Leopards gear up for AFCON 2023, a critical preparatory phase involves a friendly match against Burkina Faso.
Scheduled just two days before the finalization of DR Congo’s squad for the 34th edition of the African Cup of Nations, this encounter against the Stallions of Burkina Faso takes on heightened significance.
The match will serve as a crucial litmus test for Sébastien Desabre’s side as they fine-tune their strategies in anticipation of the continental showdown.
The potential absence of Axel Tuanzebe, a formidable defensive asset, could reshape the dynamics for the Leopards.
As the football fraternity awaits the resolution of discussions between Tuanzebe and Fécofa, the looming question marks only intensify the anticipation and speculation surrounding the upcoming AFCON 2023.
