The story between Nicolas Pépé and Ivory Coast continues. An observation that was not obvious just five days ago, when the players called up by Émerse Faé were announced to face South Korea (Saturday March 28) and Scotland (Tuesday March 31) in friendly matches.
Indeed, the coach preferred to do without the Villarreal striker – again paying the price for his controversial comments made last December on the sidelines of the African Cup of Nations (CAN). To the delight of Elye Wahi (OGC Nice) and Martial Godo (RC Strasbourg), summoned for the very first time with Ivory Coast.
Yes, but now, Yan Diomandé, RB Leipzig striker called to take part in the two preparation matches, is finally out due to a shoulder injury. To replace him, Émerse Faé turned to Nicolas Pépé.
Nicolas Pépé returns after five months of absence
At 30, the striker is making his comeback with the 2023 African champions. Absent during the last edition of the CAN, the second best passer of the Yellow Submarine has not made an appearance with the Elephants since October 14, and a victory against Kenya (3-0) in the last qualifying match for the next World Cup.
This call-up comes at just the right time for Nicolas Pépé, in great form with two goals scored in Villarreal’s last two matches against Real Sociedad (3-1 victory) and Alavés (1-1).
