Oumar Solet has joined Cote d’Ivoire with the power, composure in possession and strength in one-on-one situations to challenge the established order in Herve Renard’s defence.

The 26-year-old Udinese defender is not arriving simply to learn from the experienced players already competing for places at centre-back. His particular qualities could quickly make him a significant part of the Elephants’ plans.

Standing 1.92m tall, Solet brings European experience and a background with France’s youth teams. He came through at Laval before spells with Olympique Lyonnais and RB Salzburg, and has since established himself in Serie A, a demanding league for defenders.

His performances this season help explain Renard’s decision to select him. Solet averages 65.7 passes per match, compared with 57.3 for Evan Ndicka and 40.6 for Ousmane Diomande. With a completion rate close to 90%, he has shown that he can contribute to the first phase of build-up without needlessly surrendering possession.

That ability could address a specific issue for Cote d’Ivoire. Against opponents defending in numbers, the Elephants often have to construct attacks from deep and need defenders who can beat the first line either with a pass or by carrying the ball forward.

Solet is capable of advancing into midfield, drawing an opponent towards him and then releasing a team-mate in a more advanced position. His influence is not limited to distribution, either. He wins 5.19 duels per game, more than Ndicka and Diomande, while averaging 1.48 interceptions and 1.11 tackles.

He has done so without receiving a single booking or making an error that directly led to a goal.

There are areas in which his rivals have the advantage. Solet wins fewer aerial duels and makes fewer clearances than Ndicka and Diomande, although those figures are also shaped by the systems used and the situations faced by their respective clubs.

Ndicka offers experience, reading of the game and composure. Diomande has a greater impact in the air and is more frequently involved when immediate defensive intervention is required. Solet’s distinction lies in his passing volume, his power in ground duels and his ability to move the team up the pitch.

Renard could partner him with Ndicka in a back four, or deploy a three-man defence featuring Ndicka, Solet and Diomande. Such a setup would give Cote d’Ivoire height, pace and several ways to play out under pressure.

A former France youth international, Solet was also eligible to represent the Central African Republic through his father, while his brother Isaac plays for the Central African Republic. He chose Cote d’Ivoire, a decision Renard welcomed, along with his performances for Udinese despite the Italian club’s collective difficulties.

The double-header against The Gambia will provide the first opportunity to assess how quickly he adapts. Solet must become familiar with his new team-mates, the demands of African football and Renard’s methods.

His profile already offers the coach something different: a defender who can win a duel and immediately begin the next attack. That combination could make him indispensable sooner than expected.