Joris Gnagnon opts for Cote d'Ivoire over France

by Phumzile Ngcatshe

Tuesday Oct 03, 2017. 12:30

With Cote d'Ivoire set to visit Mali for their 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier this Friday, French-born Joris Gnagnon could make his debut fore the Elephants.

The former France youth international defender has been included in the 24-man squad set to face off against the Eagles.

Reports indicate that the Stade Rennais player could make his first appearance for the 2015 African champions this weekend in Bamako.

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"It will be a dream come true to finally play for Ivory Coast," he said.

Gnagnon was previously called up for the friendly against the Netherlands in June, but missed out due to injury.

The 20-year-old centre-back decided to play for the Elephants despite having represented France at U20 level.

On the other hand, Max Gradel and Wilfried Zaha are both left out of the squad through injury, while striker Seydou Doumbia will be assessed by team doctors after suffering a knock on club duty in Portugal.