Ivory Coast unveiled a 26‑man roster for World Cup 2026, featuring four Premier League regulars but leaving veteran winger Wilfried Zaha out. Wolves centre‑back Emmanuel Agbadou and Nottingham Forest midfielder Ibrahim Sangare secure defensive spots, while Manchester United’s Amad Diallo and Aston Villa’s Evann Guessand join the attack. The omission ends Zaha’s hopes after a season‑long loan at Charlotte FC.

Coach Emerse Fae also called up former Ligue 1 stars Seko Fofana, Jean‑Michael Seri and Nicolas Pepe, all with English top‑flight experience. RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande, rumored for a Premier League move, makes the forward line alongside Ange‑Yoan Bonny. Goalkeeping duties fall to Yahia Fofana, Mohamed Kone and Alban Lafont. Sangare’s versatility in midfield adds another layer of options for Fae’s formations.

With Zaha excluded, Ivory Coast lean on younger talent to fuel their World Cup campaign. The blend of Premier League experience and emerging Serie A and Ligue 1 prospects gives coach Fae tactical flexibility, but depth at winger will be tested. Their opening match against the United States will test the squad’s cohesion and depth. Ivory Coast now face Group E opponents confident they have a balanced squad.