AFCON 2025 – Ivory Coast: Sébastien Haller ruled out, Evann Guessand called up as reinforcement
Injured at his club a few days before kick-off, Ivorian striker Sébastien Haller will not take part in the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco and gives up his place to Evann Guessand in the Elephants’ squad.
Sebatien Haller sous le maillot de la Cote d’ivoire @AFP
The Ivorian side will have to cope without one of its key players for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Hurt during a match for FC Utrecht last Sunday, Sébastien Haller was forced to withdraw from the competition taking place in Morocco.
Called up by coach Émerse Faé to defend the continental title won in 2023, the Ivorian forward will ultimately not be able to take his place because of this club injury. A blow for the Elephants, as Haller embodies a key element of the attacking setup and a respected leader within the group.
To cover for his absence, the coaching staff decided to call up Evann Guessand. The Aston Villa striker, initially listed among the reserves, thus joins the squad and will have the opportunity to perform on the continental stage. A well-deserved promotion for the young player, expected to bring freshness and dynamism to the Ivorian attack.
The Ivorian Football Federation issued a message of support to Sébastien Haller, wishing him a speedy recovery. African champion in 2023, the striker remains a strong symbol of the Elephants’ recent success, who will now have to move forward without him in their quest for another title.