After facing accusations from some Congolese fans of snubbing the Democratic Republic of Congo, Malcom Bokele has clarified his decision to represent Cameroon. The former Girondins de Bordeaux defender, now playing for Göztepe in Turkey, has reaffirmed his commitment to the Indomitable Lions while emphasizing his deep respect for his Congolese roots.
The controversy, fueled by social media, prompted the 26-year-old player to speak out. In a statement published on Instagram, Bokele explained: "I want to clarify that I have never been contacted by anyone to represent the DRC. I feel as much Cameroonian as Congolese, and both identities mean a lot to me."
Born in Lyon to a Congolese father and a Cameroonian mother, Malcom Bokele had the option of choosing between the two national teams. Rigobert Song called him up for the first time in 2023, and he made his first appearance for Cameroon that same year. Since then, he has four appearances with the five-time African champions and participated in the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast, where Cameroon reached the round of 16.
Trained at Girondins de Bordeaux, where he made his professional debut in Ligue 2, Bokele joined Göztepe in Turkey in the summer of 2024. Versatile, he can play both in the center of defense and as a right back. After Rigobert Song's departure, he continued to be called up regularly by Marc Brys, despite limited playing time. However, since the arrival of coach Pagou, he has no longer been called up for selection.
Faced with criticism, Bokele fully assumes his choice: "Today, I am proud to play for Cameroon and I fully assume this choice, made with conviction and sincerity. This does not detract from the respect and attachment I have for Congo. I will also be one of their first supporters and I wish them much courage and success for the World Cup," he said.
By recalling that he was "never approached by the DRC," Bokele hopes to ease tensions and put an end to rumors of refusal or lack of respect towards the Leopards. His message is clear: he respects both of his countries, even if their paths diverge, with Cameroon not participating in the next World Cup, unlike the DRC, which is making its return to the competition after 52 years of absence.
Bokele currently plays for Göztepe, a club based in Izmir, in the Süper Lig, the Turkish first division. His contract runs until June 2027. Göztepe's next match is scheduled for April 18, 2026, against Kocaelispor.
