Afimico Pululu has officially chosen to represent the Democratic Republic of Congo at international level, ending speculation over his allegiance between DR Congo and Angola.
The 26-year-old forward was named on Thursday in DR Congo’s squad for the June international fixtures by head coach Sébastien Desabre, confirming his decision to don the Leopards’ jersey.
Born in Luanda, Angola to Congolese parents, Pululu had previously been approached by the Angolan Football Federation and was even included in a squad call-up this past March.
However, he did not respond to that invitation, with his club citing injury at the time. Despite his Angolan birthplace, Pululu has consistently expressed a deeper personal connection to the DR Congo.
“These are my origins, my ties will always be strong. I grew up in the Congolese style,” Pululu told Radio France Internationale (RFI) in a recent interview. “When I see a friend of mine who I knew at FC Basel, who is now a senior player at the Leopards, Charles Pickel, I say to myself ‘I love this guy.’ I would have loved to play with him.”
Pululu, who developed as a youth player at Swiss club FC Basel, currently plays his club football in Poland for Jagiellonia Białystok.
He enjoyed a standout season in 2024–25, helping the club secure both the Polish league title and the Polish Super Cup—highlighting his growing influence on the pitch.
Though Angola had made moves to integrate him into their national setup earlier this year, Pululu took time to reflect on the decision. His final choice, he says, came after careful deliberation.
“I’m giving myself the right to think,” he explained. “In the end, if it didn’t happen in March with Angola, it’s for a reason, so I’m going to take my time. I’m going to follow my instincts. When I’ve made my choice, I’ll declare it. But nothing is decided today. I’ll think it over with my family, but it’s a fact, I don’t have a strong attachment to Angola.”
Now confirmed as part of DR Congo’s plans, Pululu adds further depth to Desabre’s attacking options.
His blend of physicality and technical skill will be an asset as the Leopards gear up for upcoming qualifiers and regional competitions.
Pululu’s decision marks a new chapter in his career—one that sees him return to his roots, not just in heritage, but in footballing identity.
