Emerse Fae has brushed aside mounting criticism over his squad choices, insisting every decision was made with one objective in mind as Cote d’Ivoire attempt to achieve what no AFCON holders have managed in 15 years: defend the title.
The Elephants return as reigning champions after their unforgettable triumph on home soil last year, but the road to a historic repeat has already been marked by debate following the exclusion of several high-profile names.
Fae, however, remains unmoved, stressing that selection goes beyond reputation and recent headlines.
The absence of Nicolas Pepe, despite the winger’s strong performances in Spain, has been the most contentious.
Fae acknowledged Pepe’s quality but made clear that form alone does not guarantee a place.
“If we were to look only at the sporting side, he would be with us,” Fae said. “But putting together a squad means weighing many factors, both on and off the pitch.”
Simon Adingra also missed out, with Fae pointing to the attacker’s limited role at club level as a key consideration.
“Simon is struggling to earn a starting spot at Sunderland, and that mattered when we made our choices,” he explained.
While some doors were closed, others reopened. Wilfried Zaha’s return after a three-year absence signalled Fae’s willingness to reward players who fit his vision.
The forward’s recent form in Major League Soccer, coupled with his experience, tipped the balance in his favour.
“His ability to beat defenders and create chances is something this team can benefit from,” Fae said.
Fae’s authority in the role was cemented during last year’s tournament, when he stepped in after Jean-Louis Gasset’s departure and oversaw one of AFCON’s most unlikely title runs.
Cote d’Ivoire lost twice in the group stage, qualified as the lowest-ranked third-placed side, and then eliminated Senegal, Mali, DR Congo and Nigeria to lift the trophy.
That journey, Fae believes, underlines the importance of unity and balance over individual profiles as the Elephants prepare to open their title defence against Mozambique on December 24 in Group F, which also features Cameroon and Gabon.
With history within reach and pressure building, Fae has made it clear that his selections are final.
The focus now shifts from debate to delivery as Cote d’Ivoire chase a rare place in AFCON history.
