Brama Traoré, newly appointed as Burkina Faso’s head coach, has unveiled his inaugural squad list, featuring 25 Stallions selected for the upcoming friendly matches against Libya and Niger in Morocco.
Traoré’s announcement comes in the wake of his recent appointment to succeed Hubert Velud following Burkina Faso’s elimination in the round of 16 of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Notably absent from the squad are eleven players who featured in the AFCON, including key figures such as Bertrand Traoré, Issoufou Dayo, and Hervé Koffi Kouakou.
The omission of stalwarts like Mohamed Konaté, Mamadi Bangré, Hassane Bandé, and Feysal Tapsoba, alongside Bertrand Traoré, who has been experiencing a resurgence at Villarreal, raises questions about the coach’s intentions.
Traoré, however, maintained an air of mystery during his presentation conference, suggesting that the decision to omit certain established players was part of a broader strategy.
“Whether it’s Bertrand Traoré, Hervé Koffi, or Issoufou Dayo, I’ve just arrived. We will have to talk to them, listen to them, and then appreciate… The presence of Dayo, Traoré, or Koffi can influence the game of those who will arrive.
It’s better to do without all three to see what it will do,” Traoré explained.
In a nod to rejuvenation, five new players have earned their first call-up to the national team: Mohamed Ouédraogo (Austria), Régis N’Do (Portugal), Kader Ouattara (Belgium), Hassimi Traoré (Mexico), and local talent Salif Tiététa.
Despite the absence of seasoned campaigners, Edmond Tapsoba, Issa Kaboré, Dango Ouattara, Steeve Yago, Blati Touré, and Gustavo Sangaré are set to provide experienced leadership within the squad.
Nouveau staff technique des Étalons du Burkina Faso 🇧🇫
– Sélectionneur : Brama Traoré
– 1er adjoint : Issa Balboné
– 2ème adjoint : Pierre Bazié
– Entraîneur des gardiens : Mohamed Kaboré
– Préparateur physique : Hugues Wilfried Dah pic.twitter.com/HtMTYQwX1o
— Ablam GNAMESSO 🇧🇫🇧🇯🇹🇬® (@AblamGnamesso) March 16, 2024
Additionally, the return of striker Lassina Traoré, who has recovered from injury setbacks, offers a boost to the team’s attacking options.
As Burkina Faso prepares to face Libya and Niger, Traoré’s squad selection signals a new chapter for the Stallions, characterized by a blend of youth and experience as they embark on their journey under his stewardship.
