Jean Philippe Krasso replaces Touré Bazoumana in Ivory Coast squad for Saudi Arabia, Oman games

Paris FC attacker Jean Philippe Krasso has replaced TSG Hoffenheim star Touré Bazoumana for the upcoming friendly matches against Saudi Arabia and Oman.

As part of preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the Elephants will take on Saudi Arabia on November 14 before Oman to determine the readiness of the team for the much-anticipated tournament to be staged in Morocco.

Bazoumana, who was initially named in Emerse Fae’s squad for the games will not join the team due to administrative issues.

However, Emerse Fae has replaced the attacker with Paris FC marksman Jean Philippe Krasso, who has also been impressive in the current campaign.

The 28-year-old has scored two goals and delivered an assist in 12 appearances for Paris FC in the French Ligue 1 this season.

Emerse Fae is seeking to build a formidable squad capable of defending the Africa Cup of Nations title, having secured the title on home soil in the last edition.

The 35th edition of the AFCON tournament has been scheduled to take place in Morocco between December 2025 and January 2026.