Ivory Coast FA pays tribute to Seko Fofana after international retirement

The Ivorian Football Federation has eulogized midfielder Seko Fofana following his decision to retire from international football.

The 31-year-old midfielder announced his retirement from international football on Monday, September 14, bringing an end to his time with the Elephants after playing an important role in one of the country’s most successful periods in recent years.

Following the announcement, the Ivorian Football Federation paid tribute to Fofana, praising his commitment, professionalism and contribution to the national team.

The federation described the midfielder as one of the key figures behind Ivory Coast’s triumph at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, which was staged on home soil.

“The Ivorian Football Federation wishes to wholeheartedly welcome this decision. The Federation’s president, the Executive Committee and the entire Ivorian football family pay resounding tribute to Seko Fofana and express their deep gratitude for his commitment, professionalism and invaluable service to the nation,” the federation said in a statement.

The governing body further highlighted the influence Fofana had on the team, particularly during their successful AFCON campaign.

“Seko Fofana will remain a leading figure in one of the most glorious chapters in the recent history of Ivorian football. His power on the pitch, his leadership and his unfailing dedication played a key role in the continental triumph at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, held on home soil. He was one of the key architects of that victory.”

Fofana was part of the Ivory Coast squad that lifted the AFCON trophy in 2024 after the tournament was held in January and February 2024, despite being officially known as the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

His retirement marks the end of an international career in which he became an important presence in the Ivorian midfield and helped the Elephants achieve continental success.

The federation expressed its gratitude to the former Lens and Al-Nassr midfielder, with his contribution to the national team set to remain an important part of Ivory Coast’s football history.