Abdoulaye Diaby Returns to Lille with Eyes on First-Team Impact
Malian forward Abdoulaye Diaby has returned to Lille following the conclusion of his loan spell at Belgian side Royal Excel Mouscron, and he is determined to make his mark with the Ligue 1 club.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, the 23-year-old expressed his enthusiasm about rejoining Les Dogues and his ambition to contribute during the remainder of the season. Diaby, who is under contract with Lille until June 2019, believes his time in Belgium has prepared him for the challenge ahead.
“I’m very happy to be here,” Diaby said. “I’m in the squad, and I’m gradually integrating. The hardest part is still to come, but I’m ready for it. My spell at Mouscron gave me continuity—I played regularly, I scored goals, and I gained valuable experience. Now it’s up to me to keep that going.”
While at Mouscron, Diaby enjoyed a consistent run of form, featuring regularly and making notable contributions in front of goal. His return to Lille comes at a crucial time in the season, as the club looks to strengthen its attacking options and climb the Ligue 1 table.
With Lille manager René Girard seeking to bolster his squad depth, Diaby’s reintegration offers a timely boost. The forward is now focused on proving his worth and earning a place in the starting XI.
Diaby joined Lille in 2013 and has spent much of his time gaining experience through loan moves. His recent stint in Belgium could prove to be a turning point as he looks to secure a long-term role at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy.
