Jalel Kadri unveil Tunisia’s 27-man squad without Manchester United star

Coach Jalel Kadri has announced the list of players who will play in the 2023 AFCON in Cote D’Ivoire come January.

Three players playing in France were called up, but Manchester United star, Hannibal Mejbri has been left out for personal reasons.

Two weeks before the launch of the 2023 TotalEnergies African Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast (January 13 – February 11), the announcements of the lists are lining up.

This Thursday, Tunisia revealed its 27-man final squad. Three players playing in French clubs were called up by the coach Jalel Kadri.

There is the inclusion of defenders Montassar Talbi (Lorient), Yan Valéry (Angers) and Ali Abdi (Caen). To the greatest surprise of observers of African football, the 51-year-old technician chose not to call up Hannibal Mejbri of Manchester United. A decision that was ignited by the player himself.

“Hannibal told me that he did not feel ready for the AFCON because he is going through a difficult situation at club,” his coach declared at a press conference.

Due to lack of playtime under Erik Ten Hag, the former Monco midfeilder hopes to go on loan this winter and, therefore, has decided to miss the competition to try and get revitalized.

Tunisia will play its group stage matches against Namibia on 01/16, Mali on 01/20 and against South Africa on 01/24.

Complete list :

Goalkeepers: Aymen Dahmene, Bechir Ben Said, Mouez Hassen

Defenders: Montassar Talbi, Yassine Meriah, Alaa Ghram, Oussema Hadadi, Hamza Jelassi, Wajdi Kechrida, Yan Valéry, Ali Maaloul, Ali Abdi

Midfielders: Ellyes Skhiri, Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane, Aissa Bilal Laidouni, Anis Ben Slimane, Hamza Rafia, Houssem Tka, Mohamed Belhadj Mahmoud

Forwards: Youssef Msakni, Elias Achouri, Sayfallah Ltaief, Bassem Srarfi, Naïm Sliti, Haythem Jouini, Taha Yassine Khenissi, Mortadha Ben Ouanes