Paulo Duarte opens up about several players’ refusal to represent Guinea

The Portuguese manager named Alphadjo Cissé and Bambase Conté, whilst providing further details on Ilaix Moriba’s absence.

When asked once again about dual nationals who refuse to represent Guinea, Paulo Duarte made no secret of his irritation at the recurrence of this question. He was, however, keen to clarify the steps taken with certain players and the responses received.

“I’ll answer this for the tenth time. I have contacted players, but they have refused. Alphadjo Cissé (AC Milan) let me know that he only wants to play for Italy; the same goes for Bambase Conté (Hoffenheim) and many other players. Ilaix Moriba told us he was injured,” explained Paulo Duarte.

These statements come as the Guinea national team prepares for a double-header against Eritrea, counting towards the third and fourth matchdays of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The first leg is scheduled for this Thursday, 12 November, in Conakry, with the Guineans aiming to secure another victory and boost their confidence in the race for qualification.