Ivory Coast forward Amad Diallo has been forced to withdraw from the national team’s squad for their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches against Sierra Leone due to illness. The 22-year-old, who plays for Premier League side Manchester United, was expected to be a key player for the Elephants in the crucial doubleheader but will now miss both fixtures.
Diallo’s absence is a significant blow for Ivory Coast, as he had only recently returned to the national team setup.
He was named in the starting lineup for the team’s victories over Zambia and Chad in the previous round of qualifiers, marking his first appearances for the Elephants since March 2023.
His strong performances had made him a pivotal figure in Ivory Coast’s bid to qualify for the 2025 AFCON.
The Ivorian Football Federation confirmed Diallo’s withdrawal on Wednesday, explaining that the player was suffering from an illness that required him to pull out of the squad.
His club, Manchester United, also announced his absence, noting that Diallo is the latest player to be withdrawn from international duty this week, joining several other United teammates, including Alejandro Garnacho, Kobbie Mainoo, and Moroccan defender Noussair Mazraoui.
Ivory Coast, the reigning AFCON champions, will face Sierra Leone in two critical qualifying matches.
The first leg will take place at home on Friday, with the return fixture scheduled for Tuesday in Sierra Leone.
The team will now have to adjust their plans in Diallo’s absence, with coach Jean-Louis Gasset likely to call on alternative attacking options to fill the void left by the young winger.
Despite Diallo’s withdrawal, the Elephants remain optimistic about their chances in the qualifiers.
Ivory Coast has been in strong form throughout the campaign and will be looking to secure maximum points from their encounters with Sierra Leone as they aim to defend their AFCON title.
The team’s depth and experience, combined with the home advantage in the first match, should give them confidence heading into the crucial games.
Ivory Coast’s qualification journey for the 2025 AFCON has been smooth so far, and they will be hoping to maintain their momentum despite the loss of one of their brightest talents.
Diallo, who has been battling injuries throughout much of the past season, will now focus on his recovery, with the hope of rejoining the national team in future competitions.
The matches against Sierra Leone are set to be decisive, with both teams eyeing a spot in the tournament, which will be held in Ivory Coast.
As the hosts of the 2025 edition, the Elephants are eager to secure their place in the competition and continue their recent run of success on the continental stage.
