Kinshasa, DR Congo: West Ham United right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka has been included in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s 26-man squad ahead of the June World Cup qualifiers against Mali and Madagascar.
The 27-year-old, born in England to Congolese parents, is expected to officially commit to the Central African nation as he revives his senior international career.
The ex-Man United defender previously featured for England at under-21 level and made a single appearance for DR Congo’s U-20 team.
His recent move to West Ham United from Manchester United in 2024 has seen him earn consistent game time and form, prompting the Congolese Football Federation to push for his integration into the Leopards’ setup as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
While FIFA has yet to publicly confirm Wan-Bissaka’s nationality switch, DR Congo’s decision to name him in the squad suggests they are confident the paperwork will be finalised before competitive fixtures commence.
Wan-Bissaka’s expected debut will come on June 5 when DR Congo hosts Mali, followed by a trip to Madagascar on June 8.
His inclusion brings added strength to coach Sébastien Desabre’s backline as the Leopards aim to return to the World Cup for the first time since 1974.
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