Oumar Solet has chosen to represent Cote d’Ivoire and has been included in the Elephants squad for the November international window.
The 26-year-old central defender previously represented France at Under-20 and Under-21 level, making two appearances in 2019. Having been developed in part by Olympique Lyonnais and later played for RB Salzburg, Solet currently plays for Udinese in Italy.
His first call-up for Cote d’Ivoire could lead to his senior international debut, as he begins a new chapter with the country of his origins.
Solet’s arrival adds another option to the Ivorian defence. He will compete for a place alongside Evan Ndicka, Emmanuel Agbadou and Ousmane Diomande, with strong competition expected across the back line.
Herve Renard has also brought Yaya Fofana into the squad for the first time. The midfielder, who plays for Stade de Reims, is another new addition as the coach works to broaden his options while retaining an experienced core.
Franck Kessie, Ibrahim Sangare, Amad Diallo and Evan Ndicka are among the established players selected for the November international window. Cote d’Ivoire also have a range of attacking options, including Nicolas Pepe, Elye Wahi, Ange-Yoan Bonny and Yan Diomande.
The Elephants sit top of their group after two matches, having made a perfect start with 2-0 victories against Ghana and Somalia. They will now look to maintain that momentum in a double-header against Gambia, with matches scheduled for 12 and 17 November.
Cote d’Ivoire will enter those fixtures aiming to strengthen their position, combining new additions such as Solet and Fofana with the continued presence of their key players.
For Solet, the immediate objective will be to turn his first call-up into a first appearance for the Elephants. The Udinese defender could begin building his international career with Cote d’Ivoire during the two matches against Gambia.
