World Cup countdown: Gaël Kakuta leaves DR Congo fate in coach’s hands

Gaël Kakuta says he remains fully available for the Democratic Republic of Congo ahead of the 2026 World Cup, but insists the final decision over his inclusion belongs entirely to head coach Sébastien Desabre.

With only weeks remaining before the tournament begins in the United States, Canada and Mexico, discussion around the experienced attacking midfielder has intensified as DR Congo continues shaping its squad for the biggest competition in world football.

Kakuta, now 33, has responded calmly to growing speculation over whether he could still play a role for the Leopards on the global stage.

Speaking in an interview with Capté, the Congolese international made it clear that he is prepared if selected, while also accepting the fierce competition currently surrounding places in the national team setup.

“If I deserve to be called up, I will be. If not, it’s not a big deal. I’ll support my teammates as usual. The decision belongs to the coach, but you always have to show that you’re ready. He called me up during the AFCON and I was able to meet the demands.”

The comments reflect the position of a player who understands both his experience and the changing direction of the national side.

Kakuta is no longer considered one of the automatic names in the squad, yet he remains part of the wider conversation because of his technical quality, creativity and international experience.

As DR Congo prepares for a major tournament, coach Sébastien Desabre has increasingly focused on building a younger and more energetic squad capable of competing against the strongest nations.

That strategy has led to increased competition across several positions, particularly in attacking midfield areas where the Leopards now possess multiple emerging options.

Despite that evolution, Kakuta has not distanced himself from the national team.

Instead, he has adopted a balanced approach, avoiding public pressure while showing he remains committed whenever needed.

His remarks also served as a reminder of his involvement during the most recent Africa Cup of Nations.

During that tournament, Kakuta returned to the squad in a supporting role and contributed valuable experience within the dressing room and on the pitch when called upon.

That previous involvement demonstrated that, even if he is no longer central to long-term rebuilding plans, he still retains the confidence of parts of the coaching structure.

His ability to manage matches, retain possession under pressure and create attacking openings continues to make him a player capable of influencing important moments.

The current uncertainty surrounding his status is largely linked to DR Congo’s transition phase.

Desabre has spent recent months reshaping the team with a view toward future international competitions, including the World Cup.

Younger players have increasingly been trusted with major responsibilities, while veterans such as Kakuta now compete for fewer available places.

Even so, the former attacking midfielder has refused to frame the situation as a personal battle.

Instead, he appears willing to accept whichever decision is ultimately taken by the coaching staff.

That attitude may further strengthen his standing within the national setup.

Experienced players who accept changing roles while remaining competitive are often viewed as important assets during major tournaments, particularly in long competitions where squad depth and leadership become increasingly valuable.

Kakuta’s measured response also contrasts with the tension that often surrounds international selection debates before major tournaments.

Rather than publicly campaigning for inclusion, he has chosen to focus on readiness and professionalism.

For DR Congo supporters, the situation remains intriguing.

The Leopards are entering the World Cup period with growing ambition and increasing expectations after recent progress under Desabre.

The balance between youthful energy and experienced leadership could prove decisive once the tournament begins.

Kakuta’s experience at both club and international level gives him qualities few players in the squad can match.

Over the years, he has played in different leagues and competitive environments, developing a reputation for composure and technical intelligence.

At the same time, the emergence of younger attacking talents means competition is now stronger than ever.

Desabre faces difficult decisions as he attempts to build a squad capable of competing consistently throughout the tournament.

For now, Kakuta remains in waiting mode. There is no retirement announcement, no frustration and no attempt to force the conversation.

🎙️ [𝑫𝒆𝒄𝒍𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏] Gaël Kakuta 🇨🇩 🐆s’est expliqué à propos d’une éventuelle sélection pour le Mondial 2026 lors d’une interview avec le média Capté 🎤#RDC | #Congo | #LeopardLeaderFoot pic.twitter.com/fNta5cpkop

— Leopard Leader Foot (@leopard243) May 11, 2026

Instead, there is a veteran footballer acknowledging the reality of modern international football while keeping the door open for one final major challenge.

With one month remaining before the World Cup begins, his future with DR Congo remains uncertain.

But one message from Kakuta is unmistakably clear: if the call arrives, he is ready to answer it.