Ivory Coast midfielder Seko Fofana has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 31, bringing an end to a lengthy spell with the Elephants. The experienced midfielder confirmed his decision in a message on social media, saying it was time to begin a new chapter in his life.
Fofana made his senior debut for Ivory Coast in November 2017 against Morocco. He went on to make 34 appearances for the national side, scoring seven goals. His international career included several significant moments, but the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations remains the achievement he holds closest to his heart.
Ivory Coast won the continental title on home soil in 2024, a triumph Fofana described as the fulfilment of one of his biggest childhood dreams. Winning the tournament in front of his country’s supporters gave the midfielder a defining memory at international level and added a major honour to his career with the national team.
In his farewell message, Fofana expressed his pride at having had the opportunity to represent his country. He also thanked his team-mates, coaching staff and supporters for their contribution to his international journey.
The midfielder said the memory of winning the Africa Cup of Nations would remain in the hearts of Ivorians for years to come. Although he will no longer represent the country on the pitch, he made clear that his connection with the national team will continue. Fofana said he would remain a supporter of the Elephants in the future.
Born in Paris, Fofana began his international journey with France’s youth teams. He represented France up to under-18 level before later switching his international allegiance to Ivory Coast. Under coach Marc Wilmots, he eventually made his senior debut for the West African nation.
His club career has also taken him through several different football environments. Fofana came through the academy system at Manchester City and later played for Fulham. He also spent time with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr, adding experience from both European and Middle Eastern football to his career.
He is currently on loan at Portuguese giants FC Porto from French club Rennes. His performances last season were particularly notable as Porto secured the domestic league title, providing another significant achievement in a career that has spanned several countries and competitions.
The 2026 World Cup was his final major international tournament. Ivory Coast reached the last 32 at the competition, marking the latest chapter of Fofana’s career with the national side.
With 34 international appearances and seven goals, Fofana leaves behind a career defined not only by his statistics but also by the major moments in which he represented his country. Above all, the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations triumph will remain central to his legacy with the Elephants.
After years of competing at the highest level for Ivory Coast, Fofana has now chosen to step away from international football. His decision closes one chapter of his career while leaving him free to concentrate on the next stage of his club career with Porto.
