Gaoussou Kyassou Diarra has completed a high-profile switch to Dutch giants Feyenoord, turning down offers from several European clubs to join a team he describes as having “a real sporting project.”
The 21-year-old Malian international striker, who caught attention with his breakout campaign at Istanbulspor in Turkey’s 1. Lig, finalised his transfer for a reported fee of €5 million, including a 15% resale clause.
Diarra’s decision brings to an end intense speculation surrounding his future after his standout season in which he scored 16 goals and provided two assists across 36 appearances.
Despite strong interest from clubs such as OGC Nice, Lille, Strasbourg, Glasgow Rangers, Fenerbahçe, Besiktas, and Galatasaray, Diarra opted for the Eredivisie side, citing Feyenoord’s vision, winning culture, and faith in his development as the key factors behind the move.
“Feyenoord convinced me straight away,” Diarra told Africasoccer in an exclusive interview. “It’s a club with a strong history, a winning mentality, and a real sporting project. My agents and I felt they really wanted me, that they believed in me, and that made the difference.”
A key element in the striker’s decision was the involvement of Feyenoord coach Robin van Persie, who personally reached out to outline his expectations. “Speaking with the coach motivated me a lot. His confidence in what I can bring to the team played a big role,” Diarra added.
The transfer marks a major milestone not only in Diarra’s career but also for Malian football, as he becomes the first player from Mali to don the Feyenoord jersey. Aware of the symbolic weight of that achievement, the forward has vowed to carry that responsibility with pride.
“It’s an honour to be the first Malian to wear this jersey. I feel a real sense of responsibility to represent my country in the best way possible, on and off the pitch. That gives me extra motivation every day to write a new chapter and make Mali proud,” he said.
While the expectations surrounding him will undoubtedly grow following his success in Turkey, Diarra remains grounded. He made it clear that his immediate priority is to integrate into the squad and adapt to the demands of Dutch football.
“I arrive with a lot of ambition, but also a lot of humility. My goal is to adapt quickly, help the team reach its targets in the league and Europe, and grow as a player. I want to perform consistently and show I’m ready to meet the challenge at this level,” he said.
Feyenoord, who are looking to strengthen their squad after a strong domestic campaign, view Diarra as a long-term investment with immediate impact potential. His pace, physical presence, and clinical finishing ability offer a dynamic dimension to the club’s attacking options.
The move to Rotterdam signifies a major step forward for Diarra, who has also managed to balance his footballing rise with an unexpected but successful academic journey.
With his new chapter about to begin, the spotlight now turns to how the young Malian adapts to the pressure and opportunity of representing one of the Netherlands’ most storied clubs.
