Guinea: Paulo Duarte recounts failed attempt to recruit Alphadjo Cissé

Guinea continue to face refusals from several dual nationals. As the Syli National prepare to take on Eritrea in the third and fourth rounds of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, Paulo Duarte has revealed that he tried to convince several young talents playing in Europe to represent Guinea. Without success.

At a press conference on Wednesday evening, the Guinea coach spoke about his exchanges with one of the early-season revelations in Serie A. The player in question is Alphadjo Cissé, whose international future already seems to lie away from Guinea.

“I’ll answer this for the tenth time. I contacted players, but they refused. Alphadjo Cissé told me he only wanted Italy. It’s the same with Bambase Conté and many other players. Ilaix Moriba told us he was injured,” Paulo Duarte said.

Alphadjo Cissé called up by Italy

Born in Treviso to Guinean parents, the young attacking midfielder has made an impressive start to the season, scoring five goals in nine Serie A matches. His performances earned him a call-up to the Italian national team by Roberto Mancini for the international break. He could make his debut for the Azzurri as soon as tonight against France.

The situation is similar for Bambase Conté, Hoffenheim’s attacking midfielder, who was also approached by the Guinean Football Federation. As for Ilaix Moriba (26 caps), his absence is reportedly due to an injury, according to the information given to Duarte.

Guinea must deliver against Eritrea

These explanations come at a particularly tense time for Guinea, who need to take maximum points from their two matches against Eritrea. In this group, Kenya have already qualified for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations as hosts. Guinea, South Africa and Eritrea are therefore vying for the one remaining place.

Read also: 2027 AFCON qualifying – Ivory Coast: Emmanuel Agbadou a doubt against Gambia

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

Related teams and leagues

Guinea