Patrick Zabi received his first call-up to the Ivory Coast national team on Monday, 16 September. The 19-year-old midfielder, nicknamed "Zabi la Magie", is one of eight new faces in the first squad announced by Hervé Renard since his return as head coach of the Elephants.
The manager revealed his group for the upcoming fixtures, including a key World Cup qualifier against Ghana on 24 September. Ivory Coast currently sits second in their qualifying group with six points from three games, a context where fresh talent is highly valued. Zabi's journey, born in Yopougon, symbolises the vibrancy of Ivorian football. Spotted at the age of 12 at the Ivoire FC academy, he later shone at Cocody Maracana Club in street football, or maracana, before taking a decisive step.
A meteoric rise
Stade de Reims recruited him in January 2025, initially placing him in their Pro 2 team before he quickly progressed to the professional squad. His technical quality, ability to break lines with passing, and audacity convinced Paris FC, who signed him for the summer of 2026. Now playing in Ligue 1, the young player sees his efforts rewarded with this national team selection. "Zabi la Magie", as he calls himself, embodies this new generation ready to serve the national side.
Hervé Renard is betting on this fresh blood to energise his squad, which has a record of three wins and two defeats in its last five matches. Following the recent 1-2 loss to Norway at the end of June, the home fixture against Ghana is a major hurdle in the qualification race. Supporters can follow the team's preparation and exact lineup on our squad page. The Elephants' full schedule, including future clashes against Somalia and Cameroon, is available in our fixtures.
For Zabi, this first call-up marks the culmination of a rapid ascent, from the maracana pitch to Ligue 1 grounds and now to the national team. He joins the group training for the match against Ghana, scheduled for Thursday, 24 September.
The original report is at Africa Top Sports
