Why does Oumar Traoré play for Mali?

Born in Korofina, Mali · Citizenship: Mali, United Arab Emirates

Short answer

Oumar Traoré plays for Mali because he holds Malian nationality and chose to represent the country at senior level (first senior call-up on record: 2019).

Birthplace and citizenship

Oumar Traoré was born in Mali; holds Mali and United Arab Emirates citizenship.

International career path

His international pathway, as recorded on Wikidata:

  • Mali — senior level, 2019

The rules in brief

A player can represent a country if they hold its nationality and have a genuine link to it: birth on its territory, a parent or grandparent born there, or several years of residency. Youth matches do not tie a player to a country. Since 2020, FIFA also lets a player switch once after a small number of senior appearances (no more than three, all before turning 21, none at a World Cup or continental finals) after a three-year wait.

Read our full guide to FIFA eligibility rules →

Frequently asked questions

Why does Oumar Traoré play for Mali?

Oumar Traoré holds Malian nationality and chose to represent Mali at senior level.

Where was Oumar Traoré born?

Oumar Traoré was born in Korofina, Mali.

What nationality is Oumar Traoré?

Wikidata lists Oumar Traoré as a citizen of Mali and United Arab Emirates.