Ivory Coast’s experienced and influential midfielder, Seko Fofana, has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing down the curtain on a remarkable career with the national team affectionately known as “The Elephants”. At 31 years of age, the dynamic playmaker shared his heartfelt decision across social media platforms, leaving fans and football administrators reflecting on his substantial contributions to West African football.
Fofana’s international journey with the senior Ivorian squad commenced in November 2017 during a high-stakes fixture against Morocco. Over the course of his national career, he earned 34 caps for his country, finding the back of the net on 7 occasions. His industrious work rate, physical presence in the middle of the park, and tactical versatility proved invaluable across multiple campaigns. Notably, the recent 2026 FIFA World Cup marked the culmination of his international tenure, where he helped guide Ivory Coast through a challenging tournament to reach the round of the last 32.
Reflecting upon his departure, Fofana singled out the unforgettable triumph at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as the absolute pinnacle of his international playing days. Securing continental glory on home soil was, for him, the realisation of a childhood dream. In an emotional message addressed to supporters, he expressed profound gratitude and immense pride at having worn the national colours and represented millions of Ivorians on the global stage. He also paid tribute to his teammates, coaching staff, and loyal fans, confirming that he would transition into a passionate supporter of the team from the stands.
Born in Paris, Fofana’s footballing roots initially developed within the French youth system, where he represented France across various junior levels up to the under-18 age group. However, a pivotal career pivot under former manager Marc Wilmots eventually steered him toward his ancestral homeland, leading to his senior debut for the Ivorian national side.
At the club level, Fofana boasts a diverse and illustrious CV. His formative years included stints within the youth academy of Manchester City, followed by professional spells at English side Fulham and Saudi powerhouse Al Nassr. Currently, he plies his trade with Portuguese giants FC Porto on loan from French club Rennes, having played a notable role in helping Porto secure domestic league success during the previous campaign. While his international chapter has drawn to a close, Fofana’s club career continues to command considerable attention.
