Ivory Coast star Seko Fofana announces international retirement at 31

Delivering an emotional parting message to supporters, the 31-year-old reflected on his pinnacle achievement of lifting the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations trophy on home soil.

Via his official Instagram account, Fofana wrote: "Dear Ivorian fans, the time has come for me to turn the page. It is with immense pride and deep gratitude that I had the privilege of fighting for my country. Winning the continent's greatest trophy was a childhood dream come true for me, and these memories will be forever etched in the hearts of millions of Ivorians.

"Thank you to my team-mates, the staff, and all of you for the strength and support. I will always remain the Elephants' number one supporter, and I cannot wait to see this new generation write its own history. There is no shortage of talent in our nation."

Born in Paris and having represented France at youth level up to the under-18s, Fofana received his maiden senior call-up for Ivory Coast under the stewardship of Marc Wilmots.

His club pathway has featured prominent stints across several top-tier competitions, including spells with Manchester City's academy, Fulham, and featuring alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr. Fofana is currently on loan at Portuguese heavyweights FC Porto from French outfit Rennes, having decisively aided the Azuis e Brancos in securing the domestic league crown last season.

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