Ivory Coast has suffered a significant setback ahead of their crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Gambia, as defender Evan Ndicka has withdrawn from the squad due to illness.
The AS Roma centre-back, a key figure in the Elephants’ defence, departed the national team camp on Saturday to return to his club, leaving coach Emerse Faé with a defensive dilemma.
Unexpected departure raises concerns
Ndicka’s absence had been noted in recent training sessions, as well as in the official photographs released by the Ivorian Football Federation (FIF).
His withdrawal was later confirmed by local media outlet Abidjan.net, citing a source close to the player who stated: “The truth is that he is returning to the club today because he has not been feeling well since Wednesday evening.”
While speculation has emerged regarding the nature of his ailment, with some reports suggesting indigestion, no official diagnosis has been provided.
The uncertainty surrounding his condition also raises questions about how long he may be sidelined, both for club and country.
A defensive reshuffle for Faé
Already without influential players such as Seko Fofana and Hamed Traoré Junior, Ivory Coast now faces an additional challenge in defence.
Faé will need to restructure his backline as he looks to maintain the team’s solidity against a determined Gambian side.
During Ivory Coast’s recent 1-0 victory over Burundi, Faé opted for a three-man defence featuring Wilfried Singo, Emmanuel Agbadou, and Jean-Philippe Gbamin.
🚨 Malade, Evann Ndicka quitte les Éléphants et rentre à Rome 🇮🇹. Il manquera également le match contre la Gambie 🇬🇲 lundi (19:00). pic.twitter.com/0YpuNgUbMU
— CIV FOOT ⭐⭐⭐ (@football_civ) March 22, 2025
With Ndicka now out of contention, the coach may turn to alternative options, including Ousmane Diomandé, Willy Boly, or Clément Akpa, to reinforce the backline.
Uncertainty over Ndicka’s return
With AS Roma now overseeing Ndicka’s recovery, it remains unclear how long the Ivorian defender will be unavailable for selection.
His absence could be a concern not just for his national team but also for his club, as Roma continue their campaign in both domestic and European competitions.
As Ivory Coast prepares for Monday’s clash against Gambia, Faé and his squad will need to adapt quickly to the absence of one of their defensive stalwarts.
The Elephants will be aiming to secure a vital victory despite the challenges posed by key injuries and last-minute withdrawals.
