Madagascar exclude Zakaria Boucher due to previous statements

The Malagasy Football Federation has decided to exclude Troyes goalkeeper Zacharie Boucher from the national team after comments he made in 2018 resurfaced, in which he expressed his refusal to represent Madagascar and his desire to wear the French national team's jersey.

Bouché, 34, received his first call-up to the Madagascar national team for the Africa Cup of Nations Qualification matches against Nigeria and Tanzania, but the management later reversed the decision after reviewing his previous statements.

The Madagascar Football Federation stated in an official statement that the coach was informed of public comments attributed to Bouché during an interview conducted several years ago, at a time when the player was unaware that he was eligible to represent the Madagascar national team. It added that "after exchanging views among the various parties, it was decided not to retain the player in the national team list for the upcoming gathering."

Bouché stated in 2018: "I am French, and I have never been Malagasy... If the coach calls me, my answer will be no. I am not Malagasy, and the French national team shirt is important to me, and I will not wear another shirt."

After eight years, his name has returned to the forefront with Madagascar, but his old statements have prevented him from participating with the national team in the current international break.