Leicester City striker Stephy Mavididi has reportedly chosen to represent the Democratic Republic of Congo at international level, providing a major boost to head coach Sébastien Desabre as preparations intensify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The 26-year-old, who was eligible for both England and DR Congo, is believed to have informed the Congolese Football Federation of his intention to join the Leopards.
His decision is seen as a significant reinforcement for a squad looking to sharpen its attacking options ahead of the continental tournament.
Trained at Arsenal before spending time with Juventus and making a name for himself in France’s Ligue 1, Mavididi has now established himself as a key forward at Leicester City in the English Championship.
His combination of explosive pace, goal-scoring instinct, and technical ability has long made him an attractive prospect for national selectors.
Sébastien Desabre, currently leading a reshaping of the Congolese national side, has reportedly secured Mavididi’s commitment following months of strategic recruitment aimed at integrating diaspora talent.
The coach is seeking to build a squad capable of competing not just at the Africa Cup of Nations, but also in upcoming World Cup qualification campaigns.
“A ‘Yes’ that changes everything,” is how the news was described in Congolese football circles, underlining the potential impact of Mavididi’s inclusion. Known for his dynamic presence in the final third, the striker’s arrival could provide the injection of pace and finishing quality that the Leopards have occasionally lacked in high-stakes matches.
The former England youth international could make his debut for DR Congo during the next international break, with Desabre expected to assess his role in the team setup before naming his final squad for the Africa Cup of Nations.
The tournament, which remains a key focus for the Congolese Football Federation, offers a platform for Mavididi to establish himself as a cornerstone of the national team’s future.
Mavididi’s decision marks a continuing trend of dual-nationality players pledging allegiance to their ancestral nations, bringing top-tier experience and depth to African squads.
For DR Congo, the addition of a striker with Premier League pedigree signals renewed ambition as they aim for a deep run in the continent’s most prestigious competition.
