Jean-Louis Gasset, the coach of the Ivory Coast national football team, is on the brink of a challenging decision as he prepares to reveal the list of 27 players selected for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 on January 3
However, a red alert has been sounded within the Elephants’ technical staff due to the worrisome physical conditions of key players, notably Sébastien Haller, Ibrahim Sangaré, and Serge Aurier.
The most critical concern surrounds Sébastien Haller, the influential striker who is currently grappling with an injury to his left ankle.
The clinical evaluation of the 29-year-old’s condition is far from reassuring, and there is growing uncertainty about his participation in AFCON 2023.
Haller’s recent statements have left supporters more perplexed than optimistic, making his inclusion in the squad appear miraculous at this point.
Adding to Gasset’s concerns are the physical challenges faced by Serge Aurier and Ibrahim Sangaré, both pivotal figures playing for Nottingham Forest.
Aurier, the right-back, has been sidelined due to a calf sprain, forcing him to miss the last four matches for Nottingham Forest.
Although he is expected to be absent for at least two weeks, questions loom over his readiness to participate at full strength in the upcoming tournament.
In the case of Ibrahim Sangaré, a midfielder for Nottingham Forest, his absence from recent club matches and ongoing recovery from a groin injury have raised doubts about his optimal condition for the AFCON.
Sangaré, who suffered the after-effects of a virus contracted during his international duty in November, has faced challenges regaining his best form.
The collective physical setbacks of these key players have cast a shadow of uncertainty over the Elephants’ preparation for AFCON 2023, creating a complex scenario for Coach Jean-Louis Gasset as he contemplates his final squad selection.
The footballing community awaits the official announcement with bated breath, hoping for positive developments in the coming days for Ivory Coast’s star players.
