Nicolas Pépé’s exclusion from Ivory Coast’s AFCON 2025 squad is not due to performance, according to coach Emerse Faé. The decision appears influenced by recent online backlash after a misunderstood comment, raising debates about off-field pressures in modern football.

Côte d’Ivoire announce their 26-man squad for AFCON 2025 with Wilfried Zaha returning and Simon Adingra missing out. Coach Emerse Faé blends experience and youth as the title holders prepare for Group F