Cyriaque Irié’s journey from a humble childhood in Vavoua, Ivory Coast, to becoming a standout player in European football is nothing short of remarkable. The 19-year-old Troyes midfielder has defied the odds to emerge as one of Ligue 2’s brightest prospects, thanks to a combination of determination, talent, and an unwavering desire to succeed.
Born to Burkinabe and Ivorian parents, Irié’s early football journey was far from conventional.
Struggling to settle in an established academy, he bounced between towns in Ivory Coast before a fortuitous opportunity arose in Burkina Faso.
Spotted by scouts from Real du Faso, then a third-division club, Irié joined their ranks at just 15 years old.
Mouni Kouanda, Real du Faso’s coach at the time, vividly recalls the first encounter with the young Irié:
“When I learned he was flying in from Ivory Coast, I was astonished.
We didn’t even have grass on our pitch, yet here was a boy arriving by plane.
From his very first training session, it was clear he possessed incredible desire and discipline, qualities that quickly elevated the entire group.”
Irié’s impact was immediate. He played a pivotal role in Real du Faso’s ascent from the third to the first division, contributing six goals in the second-tier campaign.
His performances caught the attention of Burkina Faso’s U20 coach, Brama Traoré, who included him in the squad for the U20 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. By the age of 17, Irié had earned his first cap for the national team.
European clubs soon took notice. Scouts from French side Dijon FCO invited him for a trial, and in February 2023, Irié signed a three-year contract.
After officially joining in July, he wasted no time making an impression, tallying seven goals and three assists in 26 matches over two seasons, alongside standout performances with the club’s B team.
In the summer of 2023, Irié made another leap, signing with Ligue 2 side Troyes in a €3 million deal.
His choice to join the City Football Group-owned club over offers from AC Milan and Dutch teams highlighted his desire for steady progression.
He has since become a crucial part of Troyes’ squad, registering two goals and two assists in 14 appearances, including a memorable first goal in a 3-0 victory against Pau.
Kouanda, reflecting on Irié’s trajectory, remarked:
“Cyriaque’s success doesn’t surprise me. Even as a teenager, he displayed a maturity and vision for the game that set him apart.
While he still needs to grow physically and mentally to reach the next level, his potential is undeniable. I believe he’s destined for even greater things.”
With his blend of skill, work ethic, and determination, Cyriaque Irié is poised to continue his rise and establish himself as one of African football’s brightest talents in Europe.
