Ivory Coast manager Michel Dussuyer is unlikely to be without a couple of star names for the opening few rounds of the World Cup 2018 qualifiers.
The nation, who are regarded as one of the biggest in African football, will be taking on Liberia in the fourth round of the qualifiers. The team only recently completed the Africa Cup of Nations qualification with a 1-0 win over Ghana. After the appointment of Michel Dussuyer in July, the results of the team have improved substantially. However, they have a long way to go before being recognised as a force in international football
After the retirement of players like Didier Drogba, Ivory Coast are experiencing the last few years of the Golden generation. Michel Dussuyer has confirmed that Yaya Touré is unlikely to take part in the games against Liberia since he has not expressed a desire to be part of the squad. Being involved in international action will mean less rest of the box to box midfielder, who is an important member in the Manchester City squad. After very much criticism he faced last season, Touré is looking to put things right by performing well in club football. Other players who will be missing the Liberia game includes Salomon Kalou, Wilfried Bony, and Thomas Toure.
“Liberia are a respectable side who beat Tunisia in a 2017 Cup of Nations qualifier. We are expecting a difficult confrontation,” said the manager.“I think the next appointment after this [the Liberia games] will be in 2016 with the continuation of qualifying for the 2017 African Nations Cup. In any case, I’ll be ready. With all due respect to our new coach, Michel Dussuyer, I wanted to have a moment of respite.I even had injuries,” said star midfielder Yaya Touré about his absence from the squad.