Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Faé has refuted suggestions of a rift with any of his players ahead of their crucial World Cup qualifier against Gambia.
The Elephants are set to face Gambia on Monday in their sixth fixture of the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.
Currently sitting in second place, Faé’s side must secure a victory to reclaim the top spot, which Gabon temporarily occupied following their 2-1 win over Kenya, inspired by a decisive goal from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
Jean-Philippe Gbamin, the 29-year-old FC Zurich defender, is reportedly poised to start in central defense, marking his return to the national team after a year-long absence.
His inclusion appears to have come at the expense of young Sporting CP defender Ousmane Diomandé, a decision that has sparked considerable debate.
Selection Controversy Surrounding Ousmane Diomandé
Diomandé, 21, has been a regular fixture in the squad since making his debut for the Elephants in September 2023.
However, his opportunities have seemingly diminished since Faé took charge midway through the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year.
Since Faé’s appointment, Diomandé has received four call-ups but has only started twice. In Ivory Coast’s most recent outing, a 1-0 defeat to Burundi last Friday, he remained on the bench for the entire match, fueling speculation about his standing within the squad.
Faé: “I Have No Problem With Ousmane”
Addressing the speculation during a pre-match press conference, Faé categorically denied any issues with Diomandé.
“With Ousmane Diomandé? If I had a problem with a player, I wouldn’t bother selecting him,” the 41-year-old tactician stated firmly.
“I have no problem with Ousmane. He is a player I appreciate, and I personally pushed for his inclusion in the national team.”
Despite Faé’s reassurances, questions remain over his selection choices and whether Diomandé will regain his place in the starting lineup.
The match against Gambia presents an opportunity for Ivory Coast to reaffirm their dominance in the group, but the debate surrounding squad selection is unlikely to fade anytime soon.
