Abdoulaye Doucouré, an Everton midfielder, was born in Meulan-en-Yvelines and played junior football for France, although he played senior football for Mali.
The Toffees’ player made two appearances for the African team in March 2022, both of which he did not return to the squad.
The outlet 90Football, reported by Afrik Foot, managed to speak with Doucouré this week and wanted to understand why he is no longer with the national squad.
The Everton midfielder revealed that he didn’t feel at ease with Mali’s squad and wanted to focus solely on his club career.
“Today I took a little break regarding the national team . Because there were a few incidents when I was there, for the World Cup qualification. There are quite a few things that I didn’t like,” Doucouré told 90Football.
“Afterwards, I am not asking for revolutionary things. I can’t judge too much, but for my part, when I went, it wasn’t an unforgettable memory. I really came with the aim of helping the team. And I didn’t necessarily feel that way when I was there.
“I’m 30, I have to take care of my body. Not to hurt myself. I have had two serious injuries in my career, so I will be careful not to have a third. I have my contractual situation with Everton. I only have one year left on my contract, it’s a bit complicated for me.”
Still, the player did not rule out a return to Mali’s national team, even though he doesn’t see that happening so soon.
“Today, I am thinking about whether I am going to return to the selection or not. I communicated it to the leaders, they know my position. I asked them for time to think and during September, I will decide whether I wish to continue with the national team or not.”
There are less than five months until the Africa Cup of Nations, and that’s a big situation for them to be hanging on.
With the tournament being held in the middle of the European season, that’s also a good reason for Everton to watch out, as they could miss him for a few games.
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