Cesc Fàbregas voices frustration over Assane Diao’s Senegal call-up

Cesc Fàbregas has expressed clear dissatisfaction with Senegal’s decision to recall Assane Diao for international duty, only weeks after the young striker’s return from a long injury layoff.

Senegal coach Pape Bouna Thiaw included Diao in his squad for two upcoming friendlies — against Brazil on 15 November in London and Kenya on 18 November in Antalya — marking the 20-year-old’s first national team call-up since March 2025.

Diao recently resumed playing for Como after several months out through injury, featuring in just two matches before the international break.

His selection for the Senegalese side has therefore sparked unease at the Italian club, particularly given the player’s limited time back on the pitch.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Como head coach Cesc Fàbregas did not hide his frustration over the timing of the call-up.

“He’s only just come back, said the former Spain international. We’ve worked hard to get him back to full fitness, and we want to manage his return carefully. Sending him off so soon is risky.”

Fàbregas’s remarks reflect growing tension between clubs and national teams over player management ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations, which begins in less than two months.

Como are keen to avoid any setbacks for Diao, whose recovery has been closely monitored by the team’s medical staff.

The striker’s inclusion in Senegal’s squad has also reignited debate about how quickly players should be reintegrated into competitive action following long-term injuries.

While Pape Thiaw has publicly stated his confidence in Diao’s readiness, Como’s coaching staff fear that the demands of international fixtures could hinder his gradual recovery.

Fàbregas added that the club’s medical recommendations were clear: Diao needed more controlled minutes before being exposed to higher physical intensity. We respect the national team, but our priority is the player’s health, he said. We can’t afford to lose him again after all the progress he’s made.

The situation mirrors a similar case involving midfielder Máximo Perrone, who was also called up to represent Argentina despite limited recent game time.

Both instances have fueled a broader conversation about coordination between clubs and national sides when dealing with players returning from injury.

As Diao prepares to join Senegal’s camp, Como face the prospect of being without one of their most promising young forwards at a crucial stage of their domestic campaign — a decision that continues to divide opinions between the club and the national team.