Everton midfielder Abdoulaye Doucouré may have been born in Meulan-en-Yvelines and played for France’s youth ranks, but it’s for Mali that he played senior football internationally.
The Toffees’ player made two appearances for the African team, both in March 2022, and never went back to the squad.
As outlet 90Football, relayed by Afrik Foot, managed to speak to Doucouré this week, they wanted to understand the reasons why he’s not with the national team anymore.
The Everton midfielder explained that he didn’t feel comfortable in Mali’s squad, and decided to only dedicate himself to 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.
“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.
