Franco-Ivorian striker Ange-Yoan Bonny commits international future to Ivory Coast

Franco-Ivorian striker Ange-Yoan Bonny has officially chosen to represent Ivory Coast at international level, confirming his decision during a ceremony held at the Ivorian Consulate General in Milan.

The 22-year-old Inter Milan forward will now wear the colours of the Elephants instead of France, ending months of speculation surrounding his international future ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Bonny, who previously represented France at U21 level on two occasions in 2024, announced his commitment in the presence of Ivorian ambassador Philippe Gauze, members of the diplomatic staff and the player’s representatives.

The official ceremony took place on April 30 in Milan, with local media reporting the significance of the event for Ivorian football as the national team continues to strengthen its attacking options.

“Happy to join the Elephants,” Ange-Yoan Bonny stated simply in a video published by the Ivorian newspaper Fratmat.info.

His decision represents an important addition for Ivory Coast, who appear determined to reinforce their squad before major international competitions.

Bonny arrives with growing experience at club level after an impressive season with Inter Milan.

The striker has featured in 44 matches this season, scoring seven goals and providing six assists. His performances have highlighted his mobility, physical presence and attacking versatility, qualities that could offer Ivory Coast additional options in the final third.

Bonny’s profile has continued to rise steadily in European football, with the young forward establishing himself as a promising attacking talent capable of playing across multiple offensive positions.

The timing of his international switch is also significant, coming just 34 days before the start of the 2026 World Cup preparations.

Ivory Coast will now hope the former France youth international can quickly adapt to his new international environment and strengthen the team’s attacking depth.

For the Elephants, securing the commitment of a player developed within the French football system is viewed as another important step in building a competitive squad for the future.

The national team has increasingly looked toward dual-nationality players capable of adding quality and experience at the highest level.

Bonny’s arrival is expected to generate excitement among Ivorian supporters, particularly given his strong campaign in Italy and his growing reputation as one of the emerging Franco-Ivorian forwards in European football.

His next challenge will now be to translate that club form onto the international stage with Ivory Coast.