DR Congo call up West Ham United defender after nationality switch

Born in New Addington, Croydon (England), Wan-Bissaka has Congolese roots and previously represented England at youth level. Despite his promise and consistent club performances, the former Manchester United right-back never received a senior call-up from the England national team.

Now 27, Wan-Bissaka has been named in DR Congo's 27-man squad announced by head coach Sebastien Desabre for upcoming international friendlies against Mali and Madagascar, Modern Ghana reported.

The matches are scheduled to be held at the Stade de la Source in Orleans, France, on June 5 and June 8, 2025, respectively.

His inclusion marks his debut opportunity with the Leopards' senior team, bringing depth and top-level experience to the right flank of the Congolese defense.

Wan-Bissaka joins a squad featuring several Europe-based players, including defenders Arthur Masuaku (Besiktaş), Axel Tuanzebe (Ipswich Town), and Chancel Mbemba (Olympique de Marseille).

In attack and midfield, Desabre's squad includes notable names such as Yoane Wissa (Brentford), Cédric Bakambu (Real Betis), and Charles Pickel (Cremonese), all key figures in DR Congo's campaign as they prepare for crucial competitive fixtures later in the year.

The upcoming friendlies serve as part of the team's broader preparations for major tournaments, giving the coaching staff an opportunity to refine their tactics and assess the squad's depth and chemistry.