For fans of African football, the name Gael Kakuta might evoke memories of a once-promising talent who never quite reached the heights many predicted. But the 35-year-old winger, now a veteran of 15 clubs across nine countries, is making a surprising return to the international stage. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) has named Kakuta in its preliminary squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking a remarkable chapter in a career defined by resilience and reinvention.
The announcement by the Congolese Football Federation (FECOFA) came as a surprise to many, given Kakuta’s limited recent international appearances. The winger, who last played for DR Congo in 2022, has been sidelined by injury for much of the past two years. Yet, his inclusion underscores the team’s emphasis on experience as it prepares for its first World Cup since 2018. “Gael brings a wealth of knowledge from playing in top leagues across Europe,” said FECOFA technical director Christophe Galtier, referencing Kakuta’s career that has spanned France, Spain, England, and Greece.
Kakuta’s journey to the 2026 World Cup is a testament to his adaptability. The former Chelsea star, who made his professional debut at 17 in 2008, spent three seasons with the English club before being loaned to six different teams. His career took him to Sevilla, where he moved in 2015 for €6 million, and later to clubs in Belgium, Turkey, and Greece. By 2026, he was playing for Larisa, a Greek Super League side, where he continued to showcase his flair on the wing.
The decision to call up Kakuta also highlights DR Congo’s strategy to blend youth with seasoned players. The squad includes emerging talents like Yoane Wissa of Newcastle United and Cédric Bakambu of Real Betis, but veteran leaders like Kakuta and Aaron Wan-Bissaka (who switched allegiance from England to DR Congo in 2023) are seen as crucial for guiding the team. “Gael’s experience in high-pressure environments will be invaluable,” said FC Noah goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu, a teammate in the squad. “He’s been through it all.”
Kakuta’s international career with DR Congo began in 2017, after he chose to represent the country of his parents’ birth over France, where he had previously played for youth teams. Despite limited opportunities, he has scored five goals in 30 caps, including a memorable brace against Algeria in 2019. His return to the national team comes amid a broader effort by DR Congo to rebuild after a disappointing 2022 World Cup campaign, where they failed to advance from the group stage.
The 26-player squad, unveiled on March 15, includes a mix of domestic and foreign-based players. Goalkeepers Timothy Fayulu (FC Noah), Lionel Mpasi (Le Havre), and Mike Epolo (Standard Liege) form the defensive backbone, while defenders like Aaron Wan-Bissaka (West Ham United) and Chancel Mbemba (Lille) provide leadership. Midfielders such as Noah Sadiki (Sunderland) and Gaël Kakuta will be tasked with linking defense and attack, alongside forward Meschack Elia (Alanyaspor) and Fiston Mayele (Pyramids FC).
For Kakuta, the call-up is a chance to rewrite his legacy. “It’s a dream to play in a World Cup again,” he said in a recent interview. “I’ve always believed in my abilities, and this opportunity is proof that hard work pays off.” His presence also adds a unique narrative to the tournament, as he becomes one of the oldest players in the competition. The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, will kick off on June 8, 2026, with DR Congo’s first match scheduled for June 15 against a group opponent to be confirmed.
As the team begins preparations, questions remain about Kakuta’s role. Will he start, or will he serve as a mentor to younger players? His ability to adapt—whether as a winger, striker, or playmaker—has been a hallmark of his career. For now, the focus is on the collective goal: representing DR Congo on the world stage. “We’re building something special,” said captain Steve Kapuadi. “Gael’s here to help us achieve it.”
The 2026 World Cup marks a pivotal moment for DR Congo’s footballing future. With Kakuta’s experience and the talent of its younger generation, the team aims to make a lasting impact. For fans, the story of a 35-year-old winger chasing a World Cup dream is a reminder of the enduring power of passion and perseverance in sports.
