Oumar Diaw swaps Belgium for Azerbaijan as Shafa secure French-Senegalese defender

French-Senegalese centre-back Oumar Diaw has joined Azerbaijan’s Shafa from Belgian club RE Acren, completing a move into the Premyer Liqa.

The 25-year-old defender has signed a contract with Shafa running until 30 June 2028. Diaw, who was born in Roubaix, France, is listed as holding both French and Senegalese nationality and will continue his career in Azerbaijan after two seasons with RE Acren.

Diaw made 48 appearances in the 2de Nationale FFA during his time with the Belgian club, scoring once and providing one assist. He also featured in the Croky Cup, making two appearances, and played in the Coupe de France earlier in his career.

The left-footed defender stands 1.85m tall and has been used primarily at centre-back. His arrival gives Shafa an experienced addition to their defensive options as the club prepares for its campaign in Azerbaijan’s top division.

Diaw joined RE Acren from Belgian side Olympic Marcquois on 1 July 2024. That move followed a four-year spell with Olympic Marcquois, which began after he left IC de Croix in July 2020.

Before moving to RE Acren, Diaw accumulated 34 appearances in National 2 – Group G, adding to his experience in the Belgian and French lower divisions. His record also includes two appearances in the Coupe de France, giving him competitive experience outside league football.

Shafa, whose senior team is also known as Shafa Baku, have now added a defender whose career has been built across Belgium and France. Diaw’s ability to operate on the left side of defence offers the Azerbaijani club a left-footed option in the centre of its back line.

The transfer was completed on 13 August 2026, and Diaw is contracted to Shafa until June 2028.