Abdou Diallo says he is fully settled at Al-Arabi in the Qatar Stars League and has no immediate plans to return to Europe this summer.
Despite receiving interest from clubs abroad, the Senegalese defender insists he is content in Qatar, focusing on his performance and adapting to life in a new environment.
Having joined Al-Arabi in 2023, Diallo played a key role during the 2024–25 campaign, making 21 appearances.
He described his experience in Qatar as positive, praising the club’s family-oriented atmosphere and the supportive reception he received from day one.
The presence of his brother, who also joined the Qatar Stars League around the same time, helped ease the transition.
Now working under head coach Pablo Amo, Diallo highlighted their strong relationship, pointing out that Amo’s background as a former defender creates common ground between the two.
The Senegal international expressed his eagerness to learn from the Spanish manager while also offering his own experience to the squad.
Diallo also spoke highly of the Qatar Stars League, describing it as an open and attack-driven competition. He drew comparisons to his time in Belgium, noting the frequent end-to-end action and high-scoring matches.
He believes the league is gaining traction, both through the arrival of well-known players and the visibility gained from hosting major tournaments like the World Cup.
As the new season approaches, Diallo remains grounded about his contractual situation. He has one year left on his deal, with an option for an additional year subject to mutual agreement.
While acknowledging that anything can happen in football, he emphasised the importance of staying focused on his current club and performing consistently.
When asked about a potential return to Ligue 1 or another European league, Diallo admitted there had been informal contacts but no firm offers.
He appreciated the recognition but remained committed to Al-Arabi, stressing the distinction between discussions and actual deals. For now, his priority is contributing to his current team and remaining fully professional.
Diallo’s affection for Paris Saint-Germain remains strong. Watching the club lift the Champions League trophy, he admitted feeling like part of the squad despite no longer being a PSG player.
He spoke with pride and joy at their success, noting how hard the players and staff worked to achieve the long-awaited victory.
Though no longer at the club, Diallo praised PSG head coach Luis Enrique for his leadership and tactical acumen.
He also credited the club’s management for putting the right team in place to finally secure the Champions League title.
Looking ahead to the Africa Cup of Nations, Diallo was confident about his place in the Senegal squad. He explained that his consistent performances while playing in the Middle East over the past two years have kept him in the national team conversation.
The defender believes his presence in Qatar will not hinder his international career, noting that many of his Senegal teammates are also playing in the region.
As for what lies ahead, Diallo remains ambitious. He dreams of winning every competition available to him — from league titles in Qatar to continental honours with Senegal. Above all, he hopes to stay healthy, continue enjoying the game, and seize any new opportunity that may arise.
