France-born striker Mohamed Dao has chosen to represent Ivory Coast at international level, handing the West African nation another promising young talent ahead of the next generation of continental competitions.
The 19-year-old forward, who plays for Paris FC, announced his decision through his Instagram account and is set to join Ivory Coast’s Under-23 side for the upcoming Maurice Revello Tournament.
Born in Clichy-sous-Bois in France but of Ivorian descent, Dao’s decision represents another significant addition for the Elephants’ youth setup as African nations continue to compete for dual-nationality players developing in European football systems.
The striker’s announcement comes after an impressive season at youth level in France, where he scored seven goals in seven matches in the National U19 league for Paris FC.
His form has drawn attention and increased expectations surrounding his future development.
For Ivory Coast, the decision is another indication of the country’s determination to strengthen its long-term football project by integrating young players with international exposure and strong technical backgrounds.
Dao’s selection for the Maurice Revello Tournament is expected to provide him with an early opportunity to adapt to the Ivorian football environment while testing himself against some of the best emerging talents in world football.
The competition has historically served as a showcase for future international stars and remains an important platform for youth national teams.
The young striker’s move also reflects a wider trend across African football, where several European-born players with African heritage are increasingly choosing to represent the countries of their parents or family roots at international level.
Ivory Coast, three-time African champions, have continued investing heavily in youth development and talent identification as they seek to maintain their status among the continent’s leading football nations.
Bringing in young players raised in competitive European academies is seen as an important part of that strategy.
Dao’s rise at Paris FC has been particularly notable because of his consistency in front of goal.
Scoring seven times in seven youth matches has highlighted his attacking instincts and ability to make an impact in the final third, qualities that likely influenced Ivory Coast’s interest in integrating him quickly into their youth national team structure.
His decision to represent Ivory Coast also arrives during a period of optimism for Ivorian football, with the country continuing to rebuild after recent international successes and a renewed focus on younger talent.
Although still only 19, Dao now enters a new phase in his career, balancing club development in France with growing expectations on the international stage.
Participation in the Maurice Revello Tournament could become an important stepping stone in his journey, potentially opening the door to future appearances with Ivory Coast’s senior national team.
