Boubacar Copa Barry has returned to the Cote d’Ivoire senior national team as part of Herve Renard’s coaching staff.
The former goalkeeper, who was the hero of the country’s 2015 Africa Cup of Nations triumph, will combine two roles. He has been appointed goalkeeper coach and second assistant to head coach Renard.
The move brings one of Cote d’Ivoire’s most celebrated players back into the national set-up, where he will work alongside Renard to prepare the Elephants.
Barry’s appointment reflects his extensive technical qualifications. He is one of the few specialists to hold the highest coaching certifications in European football, having completed qualifications both as a head coach and as a specialist goalkeeper coach.
His return is expected to strengthen the team’s work with its next generation of goalkeepers while adding his experience of the highest level of the game.
Barry also brings detailed knowledge of the Cote d’Ivoire set-up and the environment around the Elephants. His presence is intended to help restore the winning mentality that guided the country to continental success in 2015.