Yoan-Ange Bonny has officially decided to represent Ivory Coast at senior international level with immediate effect, ending any hopes of a future switch to France.
The 22-year-old striker, who currently plays for Inter Milan, made the decision after discussions with the Ivorian Football Federation and those close to him.
Bonny, who has long been regarded as one of the brightest young forwards of his generation, now looks set to become part of the new era of the Elephants.
He featured for France’s youth teams in several international competitions gaining experience against some of Europe’s top young players.
Despite his history with the French youth system, the striker has now chosen to commit his international future to Ivory Coast at senior level.
Bonny has registered seven goals and seven assists in 44 appearances for Inter Milan across all competitions this season.
FIFA approved Bonny’s switch from France on May 8, 2026, and he is expected to be called up to their squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Since 2020, Ivory Coast has experienced a steady rise in talent recruitment from the diaspora, with approximately 13 players officially switching to represent the Elephants.
The trend began when players such as Sébastien Haller and Willy Boly made the decision to commit to Ivory Coast.
Around the same period, Jérémie Boga also confirmed his switch, marking the start of a new wave of dual-national players choosing the West African nation.
In the following years, the movement continued to grow.
Also read: England or Nigeria: Arthur Okonkwo Weighs International Career Decision
Players like Seko Fofana, Jonathan Bamba, and Evan Ndicka opted to represent Ivory Coast, adding quality and experience from top European leagues.
Their decisions reflected a broader shift in international allegiance trends among players of Ivorian descent.
By 2024 and 2025, the momentum had clearly intensified, with names such as Mohamed Diomandé, Oumar Sako, Evann Guessand, and Alban Lafont joining the national project.
These additions helped further solidify Ivory Coast’s competitiveness on the international stage.
In 2026, the trend continued with high profile switches including Ismaël Doukouré, and Elye Wahi, all of whom previously represented France at youth level.
Together, these switches highlight a clear long-term strategy by Ivory Coast to build a powerful and competitive national team by embracing its global diaspora talent.
