Emerse Faé has stepped down as head coach of Côte d’Ivoire after the expiry of his contract on July 31, bringing an end to a remarkable spell that delivered Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) glory and a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Interim Appointment Leads to Historic AFCON Win
Faé was initially appointed on an interim basis during the 2023 AFCON, hosted by Ivory Coast in early 2024, after Jean‑Louis Gasset was dismissed following a heavy 4‑0 defeat to Equatorial Guinea in the group stage. At that point, the hosts seemed destined for an early exit, but favourable results elsewhere allowed them to advance as one of the best third‑placed teams.
Under Faé’s guidance, the Elephants produced one of the tournament’s most memorable turnarounds, progressing through the knockout rounds to the final, where they defeated Nigeria to claim a third AFCON title.
World Cup Qualification and Lasting Legacy
The success did not stop there. Faé also steered Ivory Coast to qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and led the team into the knockout stages of the global tournament for the first time in the nation’s history.
Federation’s Tribute and Future Prospects
Announcing his departure, the Ivorian Football Federation praised Faé’s impact:
“The Executive Committee of the Ivorian Football Federation expresses its profound gratitude to Mr Emerse Faé for his commitment, professionalism, and the services he rendered as head of the senior national team throughout his collaboration with the Federation.”
Ivorian Football Federation
The statement added that Faé’s contribution to the team’s development and the results achieved under his leadership will remain an important part of recent Ivorian football history, and wished him every success in the next phase of his career.
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