Wilfried Zaha rejects Ivory Coast call-up due to homesickness

November 4, 2021 4:22 pmNovember 4, 20214:22 pm

SUEZ, EGYPT - JULY 11: Wilfried Zaha of Ivory Coast during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final match between Ivory Coast and Algeria at Suez Stadium on July 11, 2019 in Suez, Egypt. (Photo by Visionhaus)

The Crystal Palace star is reportedly considering his international future ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations.

Having made two England caps under Roy Hodgson, Wilfried Zaha switched allegiance to Ivory Coast in 2017.

The Crystal Palace striker is among the Premier League stars expected to feature in this year’s Africa Cup of Nations. However, he has been left out of the Ivory Coast squad ahead of their World Cup qualifiers against Mozambique and Cameroon.

Wilfried Zaha's Afcon participation in doubt after Crystal Palace forward asks not to join up with Ivory Coast as he considers international future https://t.co/oAMF5Wi1xn
— Ed Aarons (@ed_aarons) November 4, 2021

“He (Zaha) asked not to come because he comes homesick at each meeting. He wants to reflect on the rest of his international career.” Ivory Coast head coach Patrice Beaumelle explained.

Zaha’s absence casts doubt on his potential appearance in the upcoming AFCON tournament, which begins on January 9. According to Daily Mail, the Ivorian striker is considering his international career ahead of the continental tournament.

Zaha has made 20 appearances for the Ivory Coast, scoring five goals for the national team. Considering his incredible performances for Crystal Palace this season, this could be a huge blow for the Elephants ahead of the tournament.