World Cup 2026: I want to make history with Ivory Coast – Yan Diomande

Ivory Coast forward Yan Diomande has set his sights on writing his name into the history books with the Elephants at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting that his main focus is delivering success for his national team rather than being distracted by transfer speculation.

The highly rated RB Leipzig striker has been one of the standout young African talents at the tournament, attracting widespread attention for his performances and growing reputation on the international stage. However, Diomande has made it clear that club rumours mean little to him at this moment in time.

With Ivory Coast preparing for a crucial Round of 32 clash against Norway, the forward has stressed that representing his country at a World Cup is a rare opportunity that must be fully embraced.

“This is a chance to play in a World Cup. It only comes around every four years, so I have to make the most of it,” Diomande said.

The Ivorian striker has been linked with several top European clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain, following his impressive rise in Germany. Despite the growing noise around his future, he insists he is not paying attention to transfer talk.

Diomande explained that he has deliberately distanced himself from social media and outside distractions in order to stay focused on the tournament.

“I don’t have the internet, I don’t have Instagram, I don’t have TikTok,” he said. “It’s my agent who is talking to the clubs; I don’t have any information.”

The forward added that he has not engaged in discussions about his future, even with those closest to his professional career, as he prioritises Ivory Coast’s World Cup journey.

“I don’t want to talk about it, not even with my agent, because this is a chance to play in a World Cup. I want to make history with my country and give it my all,” he said.

Diomande’s comments highlight a strong sense of focus and maturity as Ivory Coast continue their campaign on the global stage. The Elephants are aiming to progress deep into the knockout rounds, with belief growing within the squad after a promising start to the tournament.

As one of the team’s key attacking threats, Diomande is expected to play a central role in their ambitions, bringing pace, power and clinical finishing to the frontline.

Ivory Coast now turn their attention to a decisive knockout encounter against Norway, where victory would move them one step closer to achieving their World Cup dream.

For Diomande, however, the message remains simple: history with Ivory Coast comes first, everything else can wait.