Brice Dja Djédjé Prioritizes Marseille Over Ivory Coast for Upcoming AFCON
Brice Dja Djédjé, one of Marseille’s key figures this season, has raised eyebrows with his comments regarding his international future. Despite being part of the Ivory Coast national team setup, the Ivorian full-back has expressed doubts about participating in the upcoming African Cup of Nations (AFCON) if the Elephants qualify.
At a press conference in Marseille on Friday, Dja Djédjé made it clear that his priority is with Olympique de Marseille, where he has secured a starting spot under Marcelo Bielsa.
“I don’t think I’ll play in the CAN as a substitute, especially since I’m a starter at OM,” said Dja Djédjé. “Today, the most important thing is Marseille. I’m not going to hide it—it’s not the national team. It’s with Marseille that I’m playing, that I’m having a very good start to the championship.”
Currently second in their qualification group, Ivory Coast is close to securing a place at the 2015 AFCON, but Dja Djédjé is hesitant to commit.
“If we qualify, it will be good for the country, but I’ll see if it’s really worth going,” he added. “Already in the national team, the coach would like me to play another position—something I’ve never done before. If I have to stay at OM, I’ll stay. In my head, it’s almost clear.”
The 23-year-old’s frank admission highlights the difficult balancing act faced by dual club and national team commitments—particularly in a season where Marseille is chasing Ligue 1 glory.
