Newcastle United forward Yoane Wissa has not been included in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, with his absence the biggest talking point following the announcement.

Injury Blow


  • Wissa, signed by Newcastle this offseason for a reported £50 million, has yet to feature for the club due to a knee injury.

  • His omission deprives the Leopards of a proven attacking option, especially given his form at Brentford before the move.

Tournament Context


  • AFCON 2025 kicks off on December 21 in Morocco.

  • DR Congo are drawn in Group D alongside:

  • Senegal

  • Botswana

  • Benin

Squad Highlights

Head coach Sebastien Desabre has named a 26-man squad headlined by:


  • Aaron Wan-Bissaka (West Ham United) – recently completed his nationality switch from England and featured prominently in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

  • Axel Tuanzebe (Burnley) – former Manchester United defender.

  • Noah Sadiki (AFC Sunderland) – rising talent in midfield.

  • Captain Chancel Memba – led DR Congo to victory over Nigeria in the 2026 World Cup Intercontinental Playoff (African leg).

Road to the World Cup


  • DR Congo will face the winner of New Caledonia vs Jamaica in March for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

  • The AFCON campaign serves as both a test of squad depth and a showcase of their growing ambitions under Desabre.

While Wissa’s absence is a setback, the inclusion of Wan-Bissaka and Tuanzebe strengthens DR Congo’s defensive core. With momentum from their World Cup playoff success, the Leopards will look to make a statement in Morocco despite missing key attacking firepower.