Spanish youngster of Senegalese heritage, Assane Diao has explained the reason for his move to Serie A side, Como.
The promising winger joined Como from La Liga side Real Betis in a deal worth €12m in January.
The offensive midfielder has been impressive straight away, scoring his debut goal for the club in his second outing against Milan.
Diao admitted he was ‘able to adapt very quickly’ thanks to the support of his coaching staff and teammates, who helped him settle into a team whose unique football style ‘generates a lot of interest’.
“I didn’t expect to start this well,” Diao said in an interview published on Como’s official channels, as quoted by TMW.
“Of course, it’s what I wanted and hoped for, but I was aware that I was stepping into a tough league and that the first steps would be difficult. However, thanks to my teammates and the coaching staff, I was able to adapt very quickly.
“Why Como? I spoke with Fabregas, who explained the project, the vision, and what he had in mind for me and for the proper development of the team.
“Speaking directly with him was very important; after that conversation, I had no more doubts and chose Como.
“But I think that anyone who has had the chance to watch a match has been impressed by the style of play, and that in itself generates a lot of interest.”
The 19-year-old is just one of the talents Como have signed in recent months as part of a ‘clear’ project aimed at making the team competitive for ambitious short-term goals, leveraging the financial strength of their owners.
“In the end, I think Como’s project is clear,” he said.
“The club wants to grow, and to do so, everyone’s contribution is needed. I’m happy to have strong teammates like them. Competition helps you improve and achieve your goals.
“Serie A? It’s competitive. I have to thank my teammates and the management for helping me settle into a new environment. I’m happy and honored to be in Italy.”
Diao boasts an impressive goal-scoring average, having scored a net every 134 minutes since joining Como.
