Guinea national football team have begun preparations for their upcoming international friendlies with a reduced squad, as newly appointed head coach Paulo Duarte oversaw his first training session with only 14 players in attendance.
The session, held in Morocco on Monday, marked the official start of Duarte’s tenure and the beginning of a new phase for the West African side.
According to the Guinean Football Federation, the initial training was designed as an introduction, allowing the Portuguese coach to begin building relationships with his players while laying the groundwork for his tactical approach.
With a number of players yet to arrive and others sidelined through injury, the limited turnout highlighted the early challenges facing Duarte as he seeks to shape his squad.
Nonetheless, the training camp is expected to gather momentum over the coming days as more players join the group ahead of two scheduled friendlies.
Guinea are set to face Togo national football team on 27 March before taking on Benin national football team on 31 March.
Both matches will serve as important tests for Duarte, offering him a first opportunity to evaluate his options and begin implementing his playing philosophy.
The camp, which began on 22 March in Morocco, is part of preparations during the international break and is expected to play a key role in shaping the direction of the national team under its new leadership.
For Duarte, the immediate task is to assess available talent while building cohesion within the squad.
However, injuries have already forced adjustments.
Midfielder Ilaix Moriba, referred to as Moriba Kourouma, has been ruled out due to patellar tendinopathy in his right knee.
His absence has opened the door for Lancinet Kourouma of FC Girona, who has been called up as a replacement and is expected to join the squad in Rabat in the coming days.
Forward Lamine Diaby Fadiga will also miss the camp after sustaining an injury, delaying his anticipated involvement with the national team. His replacement is yet to be announced by the coaching staff.
“The FGF, the coaching staff, and the fans wish Moriba Kourouma and Lamine Diaby Fadiga a speedy recovery and hope to see them back soon,” part of the statement read.
Despite the early setbacks, the mood within the camp remains focused, with the coaching staff determined to make the most of the available group.
The friendlies against Togo and Benin are expected to provide a clearer picture of Duarte’s plans, as he begins to establish his identity with the Syli National.
