Didier Otokoré
Didier Otokoré | |
|---|---|
| Born | March 26, 1969 Ivory Coast |
| Occupation | Former professional footballer |
| Years active | 1980s–2001 |
| Known for | Playing as an attacking midfielder, notably for AJ Auxerre |
Didier Otokoré (born 26 March 1969) is a former Ivorian football player who predominantly operated as an attacking midfielder.
He is most prominently recognized for his spell at AJ Auxerre, where he spent the majority of his professional playing years in France.
Club career
At the age of 16, Otokoré entered the youth academy of AJ Auxerre, receiving guidance from coach Guy Roux. Throughout six seasons with the senior squad, he was seldom a regular starter, reaching a personal best of 23 appearances in Ligue 1 during the 1989–90 campaign, mostly coming off the bench. Nevertheless, he was a consistent contributor. A notable highlight was his performance in the 1989–90 UEFA Cup, where he netted two goals in a 3–1 away victory over NK Dinamo Zagreb following a defeat at home.
During the 1993–94 season, Otokoré divided his time between FC Sochaux-Montbéliard and AS Cannes, before returning to Auxerre two years later, though without significant influence. Subsequently, he spent two seasons competing in France's second tier with CS Louhans-Cuiseaux. Later in his career, he played in the United Arab Emirates and concluded his playing days at amateur club FC Bourg-Peronnas in 2001.
International career
After fulfilling residency criteria, Otokoré became eligible to represent the French national side and received a call-up to the Espoirs in February 1988. However, due to disagreements between the French and Ivorian Football Federations, he ultimately chose to play for the Ivory Coast. His international debut occurred at the 1988 African Cup of Nations on 16 March against Zaire, where he played for 60 minutes before being sent off.
He also participated with Ivory Coast during the 1992 edition of the tournament.
Personal life
Otokoré holds dual citizenship in Ivory Coast and France. He is married to French politician Safia Otokoré.