Boost for Ivory Coast as Nicolas Pepe returns action for Villarreal ahead of AFCON 2027 qualifiers

Ivory Coast international Nicolas Pepe has returned to action after nearly a month on the sidelines, marking his comeback with a goal in Villarreal’s emphatic victory over Manacor in the Copa del Rey on Tuesday, October 27.

The 31-year-old winger had been unavailable since September 29 after undergoing eye surgery, bringing an extended spell away from competitive football to an end.

Pepe had initially left the Ivorian national team’s camp during the September–October international break to be present for the birth of his child before undergoing the procedure. He had not featured for his club since the operation.

However, the former Arsenal attacker made a timely return against Manacor, finding the back of the net to score Villarreal’s fifth goal in a commanding performance in the Spanish cup competition.

His comeback will be welcome news for both Villarreal and the Ivory Coast national team, particularly with the November international break fast approaching.

The Elephants are scheduled to face The Gambia in a double-header on November 12 and 17 in the third and fourth rounds of the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Pepe’s return provides a timely boost for Ivory Coast as head coach Hervé Renard prepares his squad for the two crucial encounters. His experience, pace and attacking qualities could prove valuable as the reigning African champions seek to strengthen their position in the qualification campaign.

Having missed several weeks of action, the winger will now be looking to regain full match fitness and build momentum ahead of the international fixtures.

His goal against Manacor offers an encouraging start to that process, although his availability for the upcoming qualifiers will depend on his fitness and the national team’s final selection.

With the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations set to be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, Pepe’s return could prove important for Ivory Coast as they continue their bid to secure a place at the continental tournament.