In a move aimed at strengthening their squad ahead of the impending African Cup of Nations (AFCON), the host nation, Côte d’Ivoire, has appointed Nottingham Forest defender Serge Aurier as the new captain.
The announcement comes as part of the team’s intensified preparations under the guidance of coach Louis Gasset, with training sessions kicking off on Sunday at San Pedro.
Aurier, aged 31, will be participating in his fifth AFCON with the Ivorian national team, showcasing his wealth of experience and leadership qualities.
The defender first featured in the 2017 edition of AFCON, where Côte d’Ivoire faced an early exit in the first round.
Returning in 2019, Aurier played a crucial role, guiding the team to the quarter-finals before a heartbreakingly narrow defeat to Algeria on penalties.
The subsequent AFCON in 2021 saw Côte d’Ivoire exiting in the Round of 16, once again falling short in a penalty shootout against Egypt.
Throughout his extensive 11-year tenure with the Ivorian national team, Aurier’s commitment and desire on the field have remained unwavering. His appointment as the team’s captain reflects not only his experience but also his dedication to the squad’s success.
With 85 international appearances and four goals to his name, Aurier’s leadership is expected to play a pivotal role as the Elephants of Côte d’Ivoire gear up to compete on home soil in the highly anticipated AFCON 2023.
The Ivorian faithful will undoubtedly look to Aurier to inspire the team and lead them to a successful campaign in the prestigious continental tournament
