Jonathan Ligali has made his intentions clear. In a statement that leaves little room for ambiguity, the goalkeeper has openly declared his availability to represent Benin at international level. “Yes, I am available to play for Benin if they call me up. It would truly be a great honor for me to represent my mother’s country,” he said. With these words, the 27-year-old has officially opened the door to a potential call-up by the Squirrels, as the Beninese national team is known.
Born and raised in France, Ligali was trained at Montpellier HSC, where he began his professional career. Considered a promising goalkeeper during his formative years, he progressed through the club’s youth ranks and eventually made the step up to professional football. However, despite his potential, opportunities in Ligue 1 were limited. Strong competition for the number one spot and a lack of consistent playing time prevented him from fully establishing himself at the highest level of French football.
After several seasons marked by frustration and patience, Ligali chose to take a different path to revive his career. He now plays in the French National division with USL Dunkerque, a move that has allowed him to regain confidence and, above all, regular match time. Week after week, the goalkeeper has been able to express his qualities, rediscovering enjoyment on the pitch and proving his reliability between the posts.
This resurgence has reignited Ligali’s international ambitions. Although he previously represented France at under-21 level, the door to the senior French national team has remained firmly closed. Faced with this reality, the goalkeeper has turned his attention toward Benin, the country of his mother and a nation with which he feels a strong emotional connection.
Ligali’s message to the Beninese Football Federation is both respectful and hopeful. “For the moment, if the federation extends a hand to me, we can move to the next level,” he explained, signaling his openness to discussions and his willingness to fully commit to the national project. His profile could prove valuable for Benin, a team that has shown progress in recent years and continues to strengthen its squad by integrating players with international experience.
The Squirrels have increasingly relied on dual-nationality players to enhance their competitiveness, and Ligali fits perfectly into this dynamic. His training in a top French academy, combined with his professional experience, could provide depth and competition in the goalkeeping department.
For Jonathan Ligali, a call-up would represent more than just a sporting opportunity. It would be the fulfillment of a personal journey, a chance to honor his roots and write a new chapter in his career. As Benin looks to consolidate its place on the African football scene, the ball is now in the federation’s court
