'I am Gabonese by blood' - Rennes' dual-national CB thrilled with first call-up for WCQ playoff v Nigeria

Rennes-owned centre-back Jonathan Do Marcolino is delighted to receive his first call-up to the Gabonese national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff against Nigeria's Super Eagles in Rabat.

The Bourg-en-Bresse starlet, alongside his cousin Alan Do Marcolino, has been included in coach Thierry Mouyouma's 26-man squad for the November internationals.

Born in Lens, Jonathan is also eligible to represent France and has previously been capped at U16 level, scoring on his debut in a friendly against Luxembourg in March 2022.

The 19-year-old will remain eligible for France even if he features in Thursday's clash in Rabat as he is still considered an U21 player.

According to Fifa rules, dual-nationals under the age of 21 can only become cap-tied to their first nation if they make four appearances, one of which must be competitive. 

Reacting to his call-up for the WCQ playoff against the Super Eagles, Jonathan told L'Union: "I'm not surprised because I'm a competitor and I wanted to represent my country. So I'm happy to accept my first call-up to the Gabonese national team."

When asked if he was happy to have been called up, he replied: "Yes, of course! I am very happy and proud to represent my country. It’s something I’ve wanted since I was very young."

He added: " I have no emotional conflict. Certainly, I was born in France and in Lens, but my father and mother are both Gabonese. So I am first and foremost Gabonese by blood.

"My primary strength lies in duels. I am a rigorous defender, to put it simply.

" I will repay the technical staff and the Gabonese public for the trust they have placed in me."

The Gabon squad to face the Super Eagles features several French-born players, headlined by Laval native Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit: Fegafoot

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