World Cup 2026: Yan Diomande shuts down transfer talk as Ivory Coast brace for Haaland-powered Norway test

Ivory Coast forward Yan Diomande has moved to calm growing speculation over his club future, insisting it will not affect his focus ahead of a crucial World Cup last-32 clash against Norway in Dallas.

The 19-year-old, currently on the books of RB Leipzig, has been strongly linked with a high-profile switch to European champions Paris Saint-Germain, with reports suggesting talks have intensified following his breakout performances at the tournament.

But Diomande has brushed aside the noise, making it clear his attention is firmly on international duty rather than the transfer market.

“I don’t have the internet, Instagram, ‌TikTok and that kind of thing, so regarding the discussions with ‌my club it’s my agent that does that,” he said.

“World Cup is the priority” as young star stays grounded

Diomande emphasised that the World Cup represents a rare opportunity he intends to fully embrace, rather than be distracted by external attention.

“It’s a great chance to play at the World Cup and I want to make the ‌most of that. I remain focused on that ⁠and I really want to ‌enjoy this World Cup as much as possible.”

The teenager has emerged as one of the breakout talents of the tournament, helping Ivory Coast reach the knockout stages for the first time after finishing second in Group E behind Germany.

His form has been central to a campaign that has brought renewed belief to an Ivory Coast side under head coach Emerse Faé.

Injury concerns and squad boost ahead of Norway clash

Faé confirmed a setback in defence, with right-back Wilfried Singo ruled out of the Norway fixture after sustaining a hamstring injury in the group-stage defeat to Germany.

However, there was positive news with the return of defender Evan Ndicka, who is available for selection after missing the group phase entirely.

The Ivory Coast coach acknowledged the challenge posed by Norway but insisted his team are prepared to compete physically and tactically.

“They are a good team, an organised team, great individual players but they play well together, very intensive, impactful and they’re very pragmatic,” he said.

“We do have our strengths, we know how to play and we will be up to the challenge on the physical side and we will try to control the game and impose our pace.”

Haaland threat looms large over knockout tie

Much of Ivory Coast’s preparation has centred on containing Norway’s talisman Erling Haaland, who has already made a decisive impact at the tournament with four goals in two appearances.

Faé was full of respect for the striker, describing him as a rare attacking force capable of changing matches in an instant.

“Haaland, I don’t need talk about him, everyone knows him. He’s a top player, he’s got a lot of energy. When you watch him play he looks very proud to play for his country.

“He’s an example for his teammates and he does a great deal for his team, for the group. He can strike on any occasion really, in any way that you can imagine.”

He added: “He’s really a special player and Norway is lucky to have him.”