Eliquiam Mangala, summoned for the first time to the French national football team, spoke about his dual eligibility for both France and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). The FC Porto defender, born in France to Congolese parents, clarified that Congo is his country of origin, with both his parents born there. Despite having connections with players from the DR Congo national team and expressing support for them, he has made a choice to represent France.
Mangala, who has been linked with moves to AS Monaco and Chelsea, refrained from making comments about his future during the launch of his website. While acknowledging that José Mourinho is a coach he likes, he emphasized his current commitment to Porto, highlighting his existing contract until 2016.
The decision to represent France or DR Congo in international football is often a complex one for players with dual eligibility, and Mangala’s comments shed light on his thought process and choice.
