FIFA Names Côte d’Ivoire the Youngest Squad at the 2026 World Cup

FIFA Names Côte d’Ivoire the Youngest Squad at the 2026 World Cup

By Admin 

FIFA has officially identified Côte d’Ivoire as the youngest team participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, underscoring the country's transition to a new generation of talent following years of success led by some of Africa's greatest football icons, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The world football governing body made the announcement on its official FIFA World Cup social media platform, revealing that the Elephants possess the tournament's lowest average squad age at 25.8 years.

"Introducing Côte d’Ivoire… Youngest squad at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Average age: 25.8," FIFA posted.

The recognition comes as the West African nation prepares to begin its campaign in the expanded 48-team tournament, which is being jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Under head coach Emerse Faé, Côte d’Ivoire have embraced a youth-focused approach, building a squad around a talented group of emerging players competing across Europe's top leagues. The strategy marks a significant shift from the era dominated by Ivorian legends such as Didier Drogba and Yaya Touré.

Faé's commitment to youth has seen several experienced players omitted from the squad, including former Premier League forward Wilfried Zaha, who is currently on loan at Charlotte FC from Galatasaray.

Among the brightest prospects in the squad is RB Leipzig forward Yan Diomande, born on November 14, 2006, making him the youngest player in the Ivorian contingent.

The youthful squad also features a host of promising talents, including Bazoumana Touré, Christ Inao Oulai, Evann Guessand, Guela Doué, Amad Diallo, Mohamed Koné, Oumar Diakité, Elye Wahi, Simon Adingra, Ange-Yoan Bonny and Ousmane Diomande. Notably, all of these players are yet to reach their 25th birthdays.

The youthful profile of the Elephants reflects a broader trend among several nations at the tournament. According to FIFA's figures, Ecuador ranks among the youngest squads with an average age of 26 years and 28 days, followed by Morocco (26 years, 144 days), Bosnia and Herzegovina (26 years, 154 days), Tunisia (26 years, 235 days), Spain (26 years, 273 days), Norway (26 years, 293 days), and South Africa (26 years, 295 days).

As Côte d’Ivoire prepare to open their World Cup campaign, expectations will be high that the country's new generation can build on the nation's rich footballing heritage and make a significant impact on the global stage.