CdM 2026: Odsonne Édouard justifies her refusal to join Haiti

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By: Manu Tournoux

Long announced in the discussions around a possible selection choice, Odsonne Édouard found himself facing an important reflection concerning his international future. Having passed through all the youth categories in the French team, from the U16s to the Espoirs, the Lens striker never had the opportunity to take the step with the A, despite promising careers alongside players like Nkunku, Upamecano or even Tchouaméni. In October 2025, he still confided in The Team that he did not rule out any option, including that of representing Haiti, while keeping the tricolor dream in mind.

But after the coronation of RC Lens in the Coupe de France this Friday evening, the player clarified his position with a strong speech, putting an end to speculation. Asked about the possibility of joining the Haitian selection for the World Cup, he explained: “no, I did not feel justified in playing this World Cup because the players fought to qualify and I was not going to arrive at the last minute to take advantage of this World Cup”. A declaration which therefore closes the door to an opportunistic departure and confirms a form of loyalty towards the course of the Haitian selection, while always leaving open the ambition to continue to target the French team.