Senegal national team coach Pape Bouna Thiaw is intensifying efforts to secure the services of rising star Assane Diao as the Lions prepare for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the 2025 AFCON.
Thiaw recently traveled to Italy to meet the 19-year-old striker, aiming to convince the Serie A sensation to commit his international future to Senegal.
With the Lions eager to reclaim their African crown after their title defense fell short in Ivory Coast, Thiaw is strategically targeting dual-national players to strengthen the squad.
One of his top priorities is Diao, whose recent performances in Italy have captured attention across Europe.
The Senegalese coach met Diao in person on Wednesday, February 19, at a local restaurant in Italy, where he presented the young forward with Senegal’s long-term vision.
Thiaw emphasized the importance of integrating fresh talent into an already competitive squad, hoping Diao would join the national setup for the upcoming international window.
“Assane is a player who embodies the future of Senegalese football,” a source close to the federation revealed.
“The coach made it clear that his involvement could play a crucial role in the team’s ambitions for both the AFCON and the World Cup.”
Born in Ndongane, Sédhiou, but also holding Spanish nationality, Diao has been a standout figure in Serie A since joining Como from Real Betis last summer for €12 million.
In just seven league appearances, he has netted four goals, becoming a key figure in Como’s push for survival.
His dynamic partnership with Argentine international Nico Paz has reinvigorated Cesc Fabregas’ side, lifting them to 13th place, five points clear of the relegation zone after 25 matches.
Diao’s rapid rise hasn’t gone unnoticed. Known for his pace, strength, and sharp finishing, the forward has quickly adapted to the demands of Italian football.
His performances have made him one of the league’s breakout stars in the second half of the season, fueling speculation about his international future.
Though Diao has represented Spain at youth level, the meeting with Thiaw signals Senegal’s intent to bring him into their fold. Sources indicate the player is seriously considering the offer and could receive his first call-up as early as March.
Thiaw’s proactive approach reflects his broader strategy to expand Senegal’s talent pool ahead of crucial competitions.
Since taking charge in October, the former Niarry-Tally Grand-Dakar Biscuiterie coach has been working diligently behind the scenes to recruit players eligible for the national team.
His efforts have already borne fruit, with Stade de Reims goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf expected to join the squad in the next international window.
The potential addition of Diao would be another major coup for Senegal as they aim to blend experience with youthful energy.
For Thiaw, bringing in high-caliber talent like Diao could be the key to propelling the Lions back to the summit of African football and mounting a serious challenge on the world stage.
As the March training camp approaches, all eyes will be on Diao’s decision. Should he choose to represent Senegal, it would mark a significant boost to the team’s attacking options and further solidify Thiaw’s vision of a rejuvenated Lions squad.
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