Mali could soon welcome a new addition to their national squad, with Stade Brestois defender Soumaïla Coulibaly reportedly set to join the Eagles ahead of the next round of 2026 World Cup qualifiers in March.
Head coach Tom Saintfiet has been actively reshaping his squad and is keen on strengthening the defensive lineup.
The last gathering of the Malian national team took place in November 2024, after which players returned to their respective clubs.
Since then, Saintfiet has been assessing potential reinforcements, and Coulibaly has emerged as a prime target. The Belgian coach recently traveled to France for discussions with the 21-year-old, with the outcome proving positive.
Despite representing France at youth levels, Coulibaly remains eligible to play for Mali due to his heritage.
Defensive Reinforcement a Priority
Mali currently sits fourth in their World Cup qualifying group with five points from four matches, trailing the leaders by four points. Defensive stability has been a concern, with the team conceding an average of one goal per match.
With crucial fixtures against Comoros and the Central African Republic on the horizon, Saintfiet is eager to reinforce his backline, and Coulibaly is seen as a key solution.
The young defender has shown promise at Stade Brestois despite struggling with a knee injury earlier in the season.
He has recently regained full fitness and played a vital role for his club, including six appearances in the Champions League.
Overall, Coulibaly has featured in 12 matches across all competitions this campaign, demonstrating his ability to perform at a high level.
If the move materializes, Coulibaly’s inclusion could provide Mali with much-needed defensive solidity as they look to improve their standing in the qualification campaign.
His experience in European competitions and technical abilities make him a valuable asset for the Eagles in their pursuit of a place at the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
