Vizela sign Ivory Coast left-back Ismael Diallo as a free agent

Ivory Coast left-back Ismael Diallo has joined Portuguese club Vizela as a free agent, completing his move to the Liga Portugal 2 side on 4 September 2026.

The 29-year-old defender had been without a club since leaving Croatian side Hajduk Split on 1 July. He now continues his career in Portugal, becoming a new defensive option for Vizela.

Diallo spent three seasons with Hajduk after joining the club from French side AC Ajaccio on a free transfer in July 2023. During his time in Croatia, he made 50 appearances in the SuperSport HNL, scoring once and providing three assists. He also featured in the Croatian Cup and helped Hajduk reach the qualifying rounds of the UEFA Europa Conference League.

Before moving to Croatia, Diallo played for Ajaccio from 2018 to 2023. He made 28 Ligue 1 appearances for the French club and also featured in France’s domestic cup competitions. His senior career began with SC Bastia, where he progressed from the reserve side to the first team, after starting in Ivory Coast with ES Bingerville.

The left-footed defender was born in Seguela and stands 1.78m tall. His preferred position is left-back, a role he has occupied throughout his career across France, Croatia and now Portugal.

Diallo is also an Africa Cup winner with Ivory Coast, having been part of the squad that claimed the continental title in 2024. The achievement is the major honour of his international career.

His arrival gives Vizela a player with experience in Ligue 1, Ligue 2 and the Croatian top flight. Diallo made 76 appearances in Ligue 2, scoring once and registering two assists, while he also played 15 matches in France’s National 2 and made further appearances in the National 3.

Diallo’s market value is listed at €400,000, although no transfer fee was attached to his move after his departure from Hajduk Split. He has now formally joined Vizela on 4 September 2026.