Official: Mohamadou Kanté chooses to represent Mali

The 21-year-old midfielder has been called up by head coach Anthony Da Silva for the double-header against Rwanda

The Mali Eagles have a new addition to their ranks. As had been rumoured for several weeks, Mohamadou Kanté’s decision has now been made official.

The West Ham midfielder has received his first call-up for the upcoming international break. He is expected to make his debut in the two-legged tie against Rwanda, which count towards matchdays 3 and 4 of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Born in Paris, the young player also has Senegalese roots, but has chosen to represent Mali on the international stage. For West Ham, Mohamadou Kanté has scored three goals and provided two assists in 12 Championship appearances this season.

Mali will first host Rwanda on 13 November for the third matchday of the qualifiers, before travelling to Kigali on 17 November for the fourth matchday.