Ilaix Moriba set for Guinea return after 18-month absence

Ilaix Moriba is poised to return to Guinea’s national team after an 18-month absence, with his comeback expected during the March international window.

The midfielder, who plays for Celta Vigo, has not featured for the Syli National since September 2024.

His last appearance came in a 2-1 defeat to Tanzania national football team during the qualifiers for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Since then, he has been absent from the squad.

Recent developments suggest that period away from international duty is coming to an end. Guinea Football Federation president Sory Doumbouya indicated that discussions with the player had progressed positively.

In a video shared on the Galaxie page, he said: “We met with Ilaix Moriba last week with Paulo. Everything is in order. It’s positive.”

Further confirmation came from the player’s father, Mamady Kourouma, who told journalist Cherif Sow that Moriba is expected to be available for upcoming friendlies against Togo on 27 March and Benin on 31 March.

If selected, the March fixtures would mark Moriba’s first involvement with the national side in a year and a half. The former FC Barcelona midfielder has made 25 appearances for Guinea, scoring once.

His potential return offers a timely reinforcement for the Syli National as preparations continue for future competitive campaigns.

While official squad announcements are still pending, the signals from federation officials suggest that Moriba’s international chapter is set to resume.

For Guinea, welcoming back an experienced midfielder could provide added depth and creativity.

For Moriba, it represents an opportunity to reconnect with the national setup and re-establish his place after a prolonged absence.