Abdoulaye Doucoure Opts Out of 2023 Africa Cup of Nations with Mali

Abdoulaye Doucoure, the Everton midfielder, has officially declared that he will not participate in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with the Mali national team. Despite being called up in March 2022 for the World Cup qualifiers against Tunisia, Doucoure hasn’t returned to the national team since.

His absence is a disappointment for Mali, as he was seen as a key addition to their midfield for the upcoming AFCON.

Doucoure stated unequivocally that he does not plan to participate in the AFCON, emphasizing his commitment to Everton and his career with the club. While he respects his country, he wants to focus on his club career.

Mali’s national team coach, Éric Chelle, responded to Doucoure’s decision, expressing some disappointment but acknowledging that his role is to find other players who can contribute to the team.

He mentioned having a strong pool of midfielders, including Mohamed Camara, Yves Bissouma, Diadie Samassekou, Amadou Haidara, and Cheick Doucouré, making Doucoure’s absence less of a setback for the national team.

Source: Infos-sport