Ivory Coast will be without Hamed Junior Traoré for their upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers, as the attacking midfielder battles persistent shoulder pain.
The AJ Auxerre playmaker has opted to focus on his recovery after struggling with discomfort that has affected his performances.
Traoré featured in Auxerre’s recent match against OGC Nice but admitted that his ongoing shoulder issues have made it difficult for him to play at full capacity.
The 25-year-old revealed he has been dealing with cartilage problems, which cause recurring pain with every impact. “I’ve had MRIs, and they showed cartilage issues.
It’s exhausting, and every time I take a hit, the pain comes back. I’m trying to push through until the end of the season, but I’ve decided to take the time to recover properly,” he explained.
A Setback for the Elephants
Recognizing the severity of his condition, Traoré personally informed Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Faé about his decision to step aside from national team duties.
The coach supported his choice, prioritizing his health over immediate selection. “I spoke with the coach and told him about the pain. He advised me to take care of myself first,” Traoré shared.
Ivory Coast will now have to navigate their qualifiers against Burundi and Gambia without the influential midfielder.
However, the Elephants remain focused on securing their place at the 2026 World Cup, having already booked a spot at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where they will defend their title.
Despite Traoré’s absence, Ivory Coast will rely on other midfield options, including the return of Ibrahim Sangaré, as they aim to maintain their strong form in the qualifiers.
