AFCON 2025: Nicolas Pépé’s omission sparks reaction as Ivorian winger breaks silence

Nicolas Pépé has publicly responded to his unexpected exclusion from Ivory Coast’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, expressing both disappointment and solidarity with his international teammates.

The squad list announced by head coach Emerse Faé on 9 December confirmed that the Villarreal winger, long regarded as a central figure in the Elephants’ attack, would not travel to Morocco for the tournament.

His absence is one of the most significant surprises in Faé’s selection.

Taking to Instagram, Pépé shared his thoughts on the decision, revealing the emotional toll of the moment.

Double blow for me. That’s football, that’s life. Thank you to LaLiga, to my club Villarreal CF, and to everyone who has supported me after these past few days of harassment and racism. Good luck to my teammates, he wrote.

The message marked his first public comment since the squad announcement and offered insight into the challenging period he has faced off the pitch.

His reference to recent harassment and racism adds weight to what he describes as a “double blow,” combining both personal and professional setbacks.

Pépé, who has earned 50 caps and scored 11 goals for Ivory Coast, has been a key contributor across several major tournaments.

His omission signals a significant shift as Faé shapes a new direction for the national team ahead of the competition.

Despite the disappointment, the winger’s message was also one of encouragement.

By wishing his teammates success, Pépé underlined his support for the squad as they prepare for Morocco, even as he watches from afar.

The Elephants begin their 2025 AFCON campaign seeking to build on their continental pedigree without one of their most experienced attackers.

For Pépé, the episode marks a crossroads in his international journey, defined for now by resilience in the face of adversity and a public display of unity with those selected to represent Ivory Coast.