Bamba Dieng to leave Lorient as Senegal forward ends chapter in France

Senegalese striker Bamba Dieng has confirmed he will leave FC Lorient at the end of June after reviving his career with an impressive goalscoring campaign in France.

The 26-year-old announced his departure on Instagram on Tuesday, bringing an end to his spell with the Ligue 1 side as his contract approaches expiration.

Dieng said the moment had come for him to close an important chapter in his professional career after two seasons with the club.

His exit follows a productive campaign in which the Senegal international rediscovered his best form under coach Olivier Pantaloni.

Although his playing time remained relatively limited throughout the season, the forward still produced an impressive return in front of goal.

Dieng featured in 25 matches across all competitions and scored 15 goals in just over 1,400 minutes of football.

His tally included 10 goals in Ligue 1 as well as five more in the Coupe de France, making him one of Lorient’s most effective attacking players during the campaign.

The striker’s performances helped Lorient secure a ninth-place finish in the French top flight, while reports from L’Équipe suggest several foreign clubs are now monitoring the Senegalese forward ahead of the summer transfer window.

In his farewell message, Dieng reflected warmly on his time at the club and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent Lorient.

The former Olympique de Marseille player said wearing the Lorient shirt had been a source of pride and added that he would keep many positive memories from his period with Les Merlus.

Signed from Marseille in 2023, Dieng arrived at Lorient looking to relaunch his career after struggling for consistency.

His latest campaign appears to have restored both his confidence and reputation, with his goalscoring return attracting fresh interest from abroad.

The next move in the Senegalese striker’s career could also prove significant for his international ambitions.

Dieng has earned 21 appearances for Senegal national football team and scored two goals for the Lions of Teranga, with regular football likely to remain important as he seeks to maintain his place in the national team setup.