Ivory Coast internationals Christ Inao Oulaï and Bazoumana Touré have been named among 10 African football stars tipped for a breakout season in Europe, according to an ESPN report published this week. This recognition comes as the Elephants sit 2nd in their World Cup group with 6 points from three matches, having scored 4 goals and conceded 2.
Who are the Ivory Coast prospects highlighted?
Midfielder Christ Inao Oulaï, now at Fiorentina, has enjoyed a remarkable rise. Two years ago he was struggling to establish himself in the French lower leagues with SC Bastia. He has since played at the World Cup. Forward Bazoumana Touré, aged 20, moved from Hoffenheim to Newcastle United this offseason. The young player previously featured for ASEC Mimosas and Hammarby. Newcastle is undergoing changes with Anthony Gordon's departure to Barcelona and the appointment of new manager Matthias Jaissle.
What is the current context for the Elephants?
The Ivory Coast national team has had mixed results in its preparations. Its last result was a 1-2 defeat to Norway on June 30. Over its last five matches, the form reads one win and four losses, including two consecutive defeats. The team's recent form in World Cup qualifying is LWLW. Fans can track the team's progress in our standings page and view upcoming matches on our fixtures list.
Which other African talents are on the list?
ESPN's report includes several other promising young players from the continent. Ghanaian midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi, 20, of Coventry City, is tipped as the potential heir to Michael Essien. He came from the Right to Dream Academy and played for FC Nordsjaelland. His Coventry manager, Frank Lampard, knows Essien from their Chelsea days. Another Coventry player, Guinean forward Sidiki Cherif (19), arrived on a loan deal with an obligation to buy from Fenerbahce for a fee reported to be north of £20 million. He has already played UEFA competition football for Fenerbahce.
Malian international midfielder Mamadou Sangare, signed by Brentford for £39 million from Racing Club de Lens, was outstanding in France last season. ESPN's Sam Tighe has tipped him as a potential 'signing of the season'. Egyptian forward Hamza Abdelkarim, of Barcelona nicknamed the 'Egyptian Haaland', was tipped as a wonderkid to watch at the World Cup. He made four appearances without scoring there but netted four pre-season goals for Barcelona and six in 11 games for the club's U-19s. Hansi Flick is his manager.
What does this mean for the future?
Having two young Ivorians on this watchlist is a positive signal for the national team's future pipeline. It shows the country continues to produce players attracting attention from Europe's major leagues. Christ Inao Oulaï's journey from France's second division to Serie A and the World Cup can inspire others. For Bazoumana Touré, integrating into a rebuilding Newcastle side will be a significant test. Their development will be closely watched as Ivory Coast looks to secure its knockout stage place in the World Cup. The current squad composition can be viewed on our squad page.
