Rangers midfielder Mohamed Diomande has shed light on his choice to represent Cote d’Ivoire instead of Ghana in international football, citing his strong familial ties to his parents’ homeland.

Although born in Cote d’Ivoire, Diomande was raised in Ghana, where he developed his footballing skills at the renowned Right to Dream Academy. His journey in the sport led him to FC Nordsjaelland before making a move to Scottish side Rangers last summer.

Despite receiving an invitation from Ghana’s national team coach, Otto Addo, to join the Black Stars for the March friendlies against Nigeria and Uganda, the 22-year-old declined the opportunity, opting instead to pledge his allegiance to Cote d’Ivoire.

In an interview with Nostafoot, as reported by Ivorian journalist Malick Traore, Diomande affirmed his long-held dream of representing Ivory Coast, expressing his readiness to contribute to the Elephants, whether at the senior level or with the U23 team.

Diomande’s impactful performances this season with Rangers have highlighted his potential, with the midfielder featuring prominently in the Scottish Premiership, boasting 10 starts and two goals to his name.