Inter Milan's Bonny Commits to Ivory Coast for 2026 World Cup

Ange-Yoan Bonny has settled on his international future — and he's chosen Ivory Coast over France. On Friday, FIFA officially sanctioned the Inter Milan striker's eligibility transfer, allowing him to suit up for the reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions at the 2026 World Cup.

The 22-year-old forward had been representing France at the Under-21 level but qualified to switch nations through his family connections to Ivory Coast. With the French Football Federation approving the transition, Bonny's path to wearing Les Bleus' colours has officially closed.

What the Elephants are gaining

This isn't about a desperate player seeking international minutes. Bonny has netted seven goals during his maiden campaign at Inter following his transfer from Parma — a respectable tally for a young player adapting to one of the continent's top-tier clubs. He appeared in all 10 of Inter's Champions League fixtures this term, though he only started twice and contributed three assists without finding the back of the net. Essentially, he's a rotational option with considerable potential.

For Ivory Coast, securing a player integrated into Inter's sophisticated system represents a significant addition. Their World Cup draw — Germany, Ecuador, and Curaçao — presents a realistic opportunity to advance from the group stage, and having a forward familiar with elite-level tactical organization could prove decisive in closely contested matches.

Two of Ivory Coast's group fixtures will take place in Philadelphia, with another scheduled for Toronto. Bonny should be well-acquainted with those stadiums by next summer.

France's missed opportunity

France's loss shouldn't be underestimated, even if it's tempting to dismiss. Bonny progressed through the French youth academy infrastructure and was a regular in the Under-21 programme. Given the senior team's considerable attacking options, a World Cup roster spot was never assured — but losing him to another nation permanently eliminates that possibility. At 22 years old and showing improvement, he represented a player who might have evolved into a senior team contributor.

What France forfeited, Ivory Coast has gained. Seven goals, Inter Milan credentials, and a guaranteed World Cup berth. The Elephants won't complain about that acquisition.