Yan Diomande’s future talk put on ice as Ivory Coast focus on World Cup campaign

Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Fae has moved to shut down growing speculation over Yan Diomande’s future, insisting that any discussions about a transfer will be delayed until after the national team’s World Cup campaign.

The 19-year-old winger, who played a key role in Ivory Coast’s 1-0 win over Ecuador in their opening match, has been attracting strong interest from several European heavyweights, including Chelsea and Liverpool.

Reports have also linked him with Paris Saint-Germain, but Fae says the constant rumours are distracting and premature.

“When we were in France, during the preparation, journalists told me he was about to sign for PSG,” Fae said after the victory. “Here, they tell me he’s about to sign for Liverpool. I don’t know, but for now, he will focus on the World Cup, and then afterwards, he can think about the rest of his career.”

Fae was full of praise for the young attacker, highlighting not just his talent but his maturity and attitude within the squad.

“He’s very talented, but beyond the talent, he’s very young and he’ll improve. He’s a kid who works hard, has a real team spirit, laughs with everyone, and he listens to the technical staff whenever he’s given advice,” the coach added.

“He’s so talented and has what is needed, plus he can give you the victory and was a real challenge for Piero Hincapié.”

Diomande was one of the standout performers in the win over Ecuador, constantly troubling the opposition defence.

He attempted a game-high seven dribbles, completing four, while also leading all players in duels contested (15), duels won (11), and touches inside the opposition box (12).

At club level, he enjoyed a prolific 2025/26 campaign with RB Leipzig, registering 22 goal involvements — scoring 13 goals and providing nine assists.

Meanwhile, Ivory Coast will take on Germany in their next group game.