Malian international Drissa Diarra, known as “Driballon,” has joined Moroccan second-tier side Raja Beni Mellal from AS Real Bamako. The central defender has signed a one-and-a-half-year contract as the club looks to secure promotion to the Botola Pro League.
The 17-year-old, who previously played for OC Safi, expressed his excitement about returning to Morocco and embracing a new challenge.
Speaking to Africafoot, he shared his enthusiasm for the club’s ambitious plans.
“I am very happy to have reached this agreement with Raja Beni Mellal. It is a good club with an ambitious project.
This is what allowed me to accept the challenge again in Morocco. I am really satisfied with the agreement,” Diarra said.
Raja Beni Mellal are currently fourth in the Botola Pro League 2 standings, just two points behind the leaders after 15 matches.
Diarra’s signing is part of the club’s strategy to strengthen the squad and push for a return to the top division.
“The club’s goal is to move up to the Botola Pro League, that’s this year’s goal. But in the long term, the club wants to triumph on a national and global scale.
I want to do my bit to help the club enter the big leagues. I liked the club’s project.
I come in this context hoping to achieve all the challenges of the championship. Together we will get there,” he added.
Diarra, who won the U17 Africa Cup of Nations with Mali, is expected to play a key role in Raja Beni Mellal’s promotion bid.
“Mainly, the club wants to finish at the top of the table. I am aware of that and together we will take up the challenge,” he said.
His contract includes an option for renewal, depending on both parties’ agreement at the end of the current deal.
