Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Faé has explained the notable absences of Sébastien Haller and Nicolas Pépé from his squad for the March 2026 international window, citing fitness concerns and tactical considerations.
The Elephants are preparing for friendly matches against South Korea and Scotland in England later this month, with Faé opting to maintain continuity from his 2025 Africa Cup of Nations squad while introducing fresh attacking options.
Haller’s omission has been attributed primarily to his physical condition, with the coach suggesting the striker is still working his way back to full fitness.
“We are sad for Haller. Before discussing any difficulties, it’s primarily his physical condition that is hindering his recovery. (…) We hope that by the time of the World Cup, he will have regained good physical fitness, which will allow him to perform well on the pitch.”
The forward, who currently plays for Utrecht, has made 15 appearances this season, scoring once and providing two assists.
Pépé’s absence, however, appears to be more complex.
Despite being in good form at club level with Villarreal, where he has scored four goals and registered four assists in 27 La Liga matches, he has once again been left out of the national team.
Reports had linked his omission to off-field issues, including a controversial video, but Faé dismissed that suggestion and insisted the decision was based on footballing reasons.
“Nicolas Pépé’s absence from the list is not due to his video, even though I would have preferred it hadn’t happened. The decision not to select him has nothing to do with that video. His absence is a purely tactical choice related to the strong competition for his position.”
Pépé has now remained out of the squad since before the 2025 AFCON, continuing a prolonged absence despite consistent performances at club level.
Faé’s latest selection reflects a shift in attacking options, with the coach integrating younger players into the squad. New faces such as Martial Godo and Elye Wahi have been included, while Simon Adingra also returns to the fold.
In addition, emerging talents including Yan Diomande, Amad Diallo, Christ Inao Oulaï and Bazoumana Touré have been rewarded following impressive displays in Morocco.
The Elephants are expected to base themselves in England during the international break.
They will face South Korea on March 28 in Milton Keynes before taking on Scotland in Liverpool three days later.
While the core of the squad remains largely unchanged, the absence of experienced names such as Haller and Pépé highlights the increasing competition for places as Ivory Coast continue to build towards future competitions.
Full squad
