In a shock twist of events, a certain African star has announced he will no longer be representing his country moving forward despite being only 19.
It won't be the first-time this year that a player has asked not to be considered for international call-ups. In March, England boss Gareth Southgate confirmed that Arsenal star Ben White asked not to be picked for the Three Lions, with the player now set to miss the 2024 UEFA Championship on the back of a stellar campaign for the Gunners.
While the motive behind White's decision remain unclear, a similar case is now unfolding in the African continent.
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Guinea teenager Facinet Conte has announced his retirement from international football, although he has left the door open for a return in the future.
"After much consideration, I have decided to take a break from my national team career. This decision was not an easy one to make, because representing my country has always been a great honor and pride for me," he said.
"I've always given myself all the time at every one of my appearances with Sily.
"I want to thank my teammates, coach, staff and supporters for their unwavering support. Your encouragement has been a source of motivation and inspiration.
"This is not a farewell but simply goodbye. I will continue to follow and support our national team with passion, hoping to come back stronger in the future."
Get the latest soccer news and be ahead of the game. Follow our WhatsApp Channel via this link!The news certainly comes as a shock, as Conte only made his debut for Guinea in January 2024 and played four out of the country's five matches before they were eliminated from the 2023 African Cup of Nations earlier this year.
Furthermore, the Bastia striker was expected to be a part of Guinea's 2024 Paris Olympics team, which has been drawn in Group A alongside France, New Zealand, and the United States.
According to Afrika Foot, it is speculated in the Guinean press that Conte's decision may have been down to the abuse he received in the aftermath of AFCON, where he was critcised for missing a clear opportunity to score during a quarter-final clash against DR Congo, who would go on to knockout the Guineans from the tournament.
The report also indicates that Conte was pelted with insults and things took a step further when his sister and late mother were also allegedly targetted.
After registering six goals and four assists for the French second-tier side SC Bastia, Conte is set to join Swiss giants Young Boys on a free transfer from 1 July 2024.
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