Yaya Fofana and Oumar Diakite push for Ivory Coast call-ups

Yaya Fofana’s outstanding form for Stade de Reims has put the 22-year-old midfielder in contention for his first Ivory Coast senior call-up, while Oumar Diakite is pressing for a return after a prolific spell with Sturm Graz.

The pair could feature in Herve Renard’s next squad, giving the manager two important decisions to make ahead of the Elephants’ upcoming assignment.

Fofana emerges as a Ligue 2 goal threat

Fofana has been one of the standout performers in the French second tier this season. The Stade de Reims midfielder has scored eight goals and provided two assists in 10 appearances, leaving him at the top of the Ligue 2 scoring charts.

His form earned him the division’s player of the month award for September, and he maintained that level in October by scoring twice in three matches.

Fofana’s ability to drive forward, contribute goals and make an impact in the final third has made him one of the competition’s leading revelations. Although he operates in midfield, his attacking output has attracted growing attention.

He was called up to the Ivory Coast under-23 squad in June 2024 but did not play. A first senior invitation could now be close, although Mali are also monitoring the player, who was developed at the AFE academy.

The Ivory Coast coaching staff are understood to have already considered Fofana during the previous international break. While his inclusion in the next squad has not been officially confirmed, his performances have strengthened his case.

For Renard, selecting Fofana would provide an in-form midfielder capable of adding energy, attacking quality and another threat around the edge of the penalty area.

Diakite makes case for recall

Diakite was left out of the most recent Ivory Coast squad but has reportedly been included in the initial selection process for the next gathering.

The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations winner is currently on loan from Stade de Reims at Sturm Graz, where he has found his scoring touch. Since the start of October, he has scored five goals in three league matches.

Used as a central striker rather than on the wing, the former ASEC Mimosas player appears to have found a position that allows him to make the most of his finishing ability.

His recent performances offer a strong response to the criticism he received from Ivory Coast supporters after the World Cup. With competition for places in attack still open, his goals could improve his prospects of returning to the national side.

The difficulties experienced by Ange-Yoan Bonny and Elye Wahi may also alter the attacking hierarchy. If Diakite continues to deliver as a centre-forward, Renard could consider giving him a more prominent role in the orange, white and green shirt.

A recall would therefore represent more than recognition for his current club form. It would give Diakite the opportunity to rebuild his standing and compete again for a regular place.

Fofana is seeking his first senior appearance, while Diakite is aiming to regain the manager’s trust. If both are selected, their contrasting paths could add fresh impetus to the Elephants.