Ivory Coast's Bold World Cup Squad: New Faces and Old Controversies

Ivory Coast's World Cup squad features uncapped Ange-Yoan Bonny, who switched nationality recently. He joins ex-French U21 Elye Wahi and recalled veteran Nicolas Pepe, who faced backlash after comments on Morocco. Absent from the squad are notable players Sebastien Haller and Wilfried Zaha.

Ivory Coast has announced its World Cup squad, including uncapped striker Ange-Yoan Bonny, following his recent nationality switch. Joining him is forward Elye Wahi, who made a similar move this year, already earning a cap against Scotland. The squad selection indicates a fresh start for the Ivorians after past tournaments.

Nicolas Pepe returns to the team after being left out during the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year. The former Arsenal forward had sparked controversy with comments directed at Morocco's past performance, prompting an apology and allegations of racial abuse. Despite the fallout, Pepe remains a key player for the squad.

Conspicuously absent are Sebastien Haller and Wilfried Zaha. Ivory Coast, placed in Group E, faces opening matches against Ecuador, Germany, and Curacao. Prior to the tournament, the team is slated to play a friendly against France, offering Bonny a potential debut opportunity.