Pape Demba Diop delighted with first call-up to Senegal senior team

Senegal midfielder Pape Demba Diop says he is focused on contributing to the national team after receiving his first senior call-up ahead of the Lions’ upcoming fixtures.

The Strasbourg midfielder joined the senior squad for the first time and took part in his first training session on Monday at the annex of the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium in Diamniadio.

Speaking to Match 360 after the session, the former Diambars player expressed his excitement at the opportunity to train alongside some of Senegal’s most experienced footballers.

The U20 Africa Cup of Nations winner said he was delighted to be part of the senior setup and believes the experience will help him continue developing as a player.

“I feel great. I’m happy to be here and to be with the older players, top-level players. We’re here to learn. We deserved to be here, and that’s why we’re here. We’ll continue to progress with the national team and try to prepare well for the two matches.”

Diop’s first invitation to the senior side represents another step in his international career after previously making his mark with Senegal’s youth teams.

The midfielder has now been given the opportunity to demonstrate his abilities at the highest level of international football, with the coaching staff handing him a chance to work alongside established members of the squad.

Asked about what he hopes to bring to the team, the Strasbourg player pointed to his individual strengths and the confidence shown in him by the national team coach.

Rather than placing pressure on himself to make an immediate impression, Diop said he intends to offer the qualities that earned him his place in the squad.

“We are all different. I was called up for my qualities, so I’m going to contribute what I know how to do. The coach has confidence in me, that’s why I’m here.”

The midfielder also made it clear that securing a starting position is not his immediate concern, insisting that the team’s collective objectives come before individual ambitions.

For Diop, being part of the squad is already an important opportunity, and he is prepared to play whatever role is required of him.

“I’m not wondering if I have a place. I’m here for the team. It’s a group, I’m here to help the team.”

His comments underline his approach as he begins life with the senior national team, with the young midfielder keen to make the most of his first experience among the Lions.

Having previously celebrated success with Senegal at U20 level, Diop will now look to carry that experience into the senior setup and contribute as the team prepares for its two upcoming matches.