With the 2026 World Cup fast approaching, the excitement is building. This Friday, May 15, 2026, the Elephants' coach, Emerse Faé, ended the suspense by unveiling his list of 26 players called up for the competition. While anticipation was at its peak, the Ivorian coach's choices have certainly sparked reactions, sending shockwaves through the fans.

The Sébastien Haller case is setting the internet ablaze

The biggest surprise is the relegation of Sébastien Haller to the status of a mere reserve player. For many online commentators, the striker's absence from the first team squad is incomprehensible, with many considering his partnership with Simon Adingra to be the team's indispensable attacking engine.

Criticism immediately erupted on social media, ranging from disappointment to pessimism:

"He preferred Oumar Diakité, Elye Wahi, Evan Guessand and Sery over Sébastien Haller and Martial, who are reserves."

"It's not certain we'll get anywhere, guys, no point in dreaming."

"Never, this is a list to play the three group matches. And the rest, we'll watch on television."

"This isn't a World Cup team. More like an AFCON team that can't win it. Faé himself isn't at a very high level either."

Accustomed to passionate debates surrounding his choices, Emerse Faé now faces even greater skepticism, commensurate with the challenge of a World Cup. The die is cast, and only the pitch will prove the coach right—or wrong. Wait and see.

📋 The list of the 26 selected Elephants

Goalkeepers

1. Yahia Fofana
2. Mohamed Koné
3. Alban Lafont

Defenders

1. Emmanuel Agbadou
2. Clément Akpa
3. Ousmane Diomandé
4. Guéla Doué
5. Ghislain Konan
6. Odilon Kossounou
7. Evan Ndicka
8. Wilfried Singo

Environments

1. Seko Fofana
2. Perfect Guiagon
3. Christ Inao Oulaï
4. Franck Kessié
5. Ibrahim Sangaré
6. Jean-Mickaël Seri

Attackers

1. Simon Adingra
2. Ange-Yoan Bonny
3. Amad Diallo
4. Oumar Diakité
5. Yan Diomandé
6. Evann Guessand
7. Nicolas Pépé
8. Bazoumana Touré
9. Elye Wahi

Reservists

1. Ira Tapé
2. Christopher Opera
3. Malick Yalcouyé
4. Martial Godo
5. Sébastien Haller