Mali's Abdoulaye Doucoure taking a 'little break' from international football

The Everton midfielder has two caps for the African county and looks unlikely to feature at the Africa Cup of Nations after not playing at all during the qualifying campaign.

The 30-year-old has now explained the reasons for his absence, citing incidents that didn't sit well with him during his time with Mali for the crunch double-header against Tunisia last year.

Doucoure said: "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.

"I am not asking for revolutionary things. I can't judge too much, but for my part, when I went, it wasn't an unforgettable memory. I really came with the aim of helping the team and I didn't necessarily feel that way when I was there.

"I'm 30, I have to take care of my body and not 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.

"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."

The France youth international switched allegiances to Mali in March 2022 and made his debut against Tunisia in the 2022 World Cup qualifying play-offs.

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