Alou Diarra Fails to Reach Agreement with Bordeaux Despite Desire for Return
Former France international Alou Diarra will not be making a return to Bordeaux, despite training with the club and publicly expressing his willingness to rejoin the Girondins. The 33-year-old midfielder, currently a free agent following his departure from West Ham United, had been hoping for a homecoming to Chaban-Delmas, where he enjoyed three successful seasons between 2007 and 2011.
Speaking to L’Équipe, Diarra expressed his disappointment at the breakdown in talks, which ultimately came down to financial and sporting considerations. “It’s a shame not to continue the adventure with the club,” he said. “I’m attached to Bordeaux, but this attachment isn’t just emotional. There are sporting and financial criteria to consider.”
The former Marseille and Lyon player acknowledged the need to compromise on salary to return to France amid the country’s challenging economic climate. “By wanting to return to France, I knew I’d have to make an effort in terms of wages,” he admitted.
Diarra’s immediate future remains uncertain, but he confirmed that he is in contact with Belgian giants Anderlecht and is also weighing up offers from clubs in England, Turkey, and Spain. At 33, the experienced holding midfielder is keen to make a quick decision as he looks to continue his career at a competitive level.
While his hoped-for reunion with Bordeaux is off the table, Diarra remains determined to find a project that meets both his sporting ambitions and contractual expectations.
