Malian central defender El Bekaye Diakité, following a standout spell with Moldovan second-division club Saksan, has returned to Africa to join Ivorian side Stella Club.
The Bamako-born defender now has fresh ambitions as he looks to revive his career. Reflecting on his recent journey, Diakité shared his experience during an interview with Africafoot:
“I was in Europe, more precisely in Moldova, where I played with Saksan. There I played almost the entire season, 34 games in total.
After the end of my contract, there were discussions about a new offer, but unfortunately, nothing was concluded. I am back in Africa with the Ivorian club Stella Club.
I have already played 10 games. We are second in the standings with 25 points.”
The former ASKO de Kara player remains determined to make a return to European football and continue his professional journey.
Courted by clubs, including French side AS Saint-Étienne, Diakité explained his decision to join Stella Club and his plans moving forward.
“Yes, I decided to return here to help Stella Club. My goal is to bounce back. After discussions with some clubs that asked me to wait for the next transfer window, I chose to play to stay in shape.
Stella Club had been courting me for a long time. As soon as the official Saksan website announced the end of my contract, the Stella Club management quickly got back in touch.
It is in this context that I am here today.”
Diakité’s arrival at Stella Club has already drawn attention, with interest building among recruiters from the Maghreb and the Gulf.
The former Guédiawaye FC centre-back is now focused on delivering top performances as he navigates his next move.
“Let’s say that there are contacts with clubs in the Maghreb and the Gulf. My agent is in talks with clubs abroad.
We are waiting for the next step, but for the moment, I leave it to him to make the best choice. We have contacts in Europe, the Maghreb, and the Gulf. We will see what my next destination will be.”
With his eyes firmly set on returning to the upper echelons of professional football, El Bekaye Diakité continues to give his all for Stella Club, aiming to elevate both his career and his team’s profile.
