Boulaye Dia compares physical training methods in Spain, Italy and France

Stade Rennais striker Boulaye Dia has offered insight into the differences in physical preparation across Spain, Italy and France, drawing on his experience playing in all three countries.

The Senegal international shared his observations in an interview with Flashscore.

Dia, who previously played for Villarreal in Spain and Lazio and Salernitana in Italy, explained that each country places different emphasis on technical work and physical conditioning.

“In Spain, everything revolves around the ball: drills, possession and rondos. There is very little pure athletic work. In Italy, there is much more focus on strength and athletic training, and a little less on working with the ball. In France, it’s a mix of the two: plenty of work with the ball, but also a substantial athletic workload.”

The 29-year-old returned to French football this season after five years abroad, joining Rennes as he looks to make an impact in Ligue 1 once again.

His experiences across different leagues have given him an opportunity to compare their training philosophies, highlighting how clubs balance technical development with the physical demands of modern football.

Dia is now focused on establishing himself at Rennes, where he is competing for attacking opportunities while adapting to life back in France.