Queens Park Rangers striker Richard Kone has been named in the Ivory Coast squad for their upcoming friendly match against Saudi Arabia. This marks Kone's first senior international call-up, a significant achievement for the 22-year-old.
Kone, who joined QPR from Wycombe Wanderers in August, has impressed with four goals in 12 Championship appearances this season. His performances have clearly caught the eye of Ivory Coast coach Emerse Faé, who is preparing the Elephants for the final phase of the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.
While Kone received a call-up for the Ivory Coast Under-23s in May, he didn't feature for the side. He has, however, previously represented his country in the 2019 Homeless World Cup. This latest call-up represents a major step forward in his international career.
Emerse Faé Announces Ivory Coast Squad
Coach Emerse Faé has unveiled a 25-man squad for the November international break, which includes the friendly against Saudi Arabia and a match against Oman. Alongside Kone, Trabzonspor midfielder Christ Inao Oulai (19) also receives his first call-up.
The Full Squad:
- Goalkeepers: Yahia Fofana, Mohamed Koné, Alban Lafont
- Defenders: Emmanuel Agbadou, Clément Akpa, Guéla Doué, Jean-Philippe Gbamin, Ghislain Konan, Odilon Koussounou, Evan N’Dicka, Armel Zohouri
- Midfielders: Maho Dorgelès, Seko Fofana, Parfait Guiagon, Christ Inao Oulai, Franck Kessié, Ibrahim Sangaré
- Forwards: Oumar Diakité, Amad Diallo, Yvan Diomandé, Evann Guessand, Sébastien Haller, Richard Koné, Bazoumana Toure, Bayo Vakoun
The matches against Saudi Arabia and Oman will serve as crucial preparation for Ivory Coast as they aim to build a strong team for the upcoming AFCON tournament.