Senegalese international Assane Diao made his big return to competition this Saturday, helping Como 1907 secure a 3-1 victory against US Lecce. Absent from the pitch since December due to medical reasons, the young 21-year-old attacking midfielder played a few minutes and even came close to scoring in the 86th minute.
After the match, the Senegalese couldn’t hide his joy:
“It’s been a long time, but thank God, I’m back. I’m happy to be with the team and I almost scored. I hope to do it next time,” he said, clearly relieved to be back on the field.
After nearly three months without competition, Diao aims to gradually regain his rhythm. “I was able to play a few minutes today. I needed it; it’s been a long time since I played, since December. I have to get back into the groove with the team, but I’m happy to have participated in this match,” he added. His goal is clear: keep playing, stay healthy, and regain his full physical capacity.
On the international front, the attacking midfielder reflected on his absence from the Africa Cup of Nations, a personal disappointment. “I’m disappointed I couldn’t go,” he admitted. However, he wanted to congratulate his teammates, feeling a part of their success: “But in the end, they won, and I feel like I won too. I thank all the Senegalese supporters and those from Como for their support.”
With just a few months until the World Cup, the message is clear: Assane Diao hopes to impress coach Pape Thiaw to return to the national team. To do that, he’s counting on consistent performances with Como and top-notch fitness.
In Italy, this return is met with enthusiasm. Como’s coach, Cesc Fàbregas, expressed satisfaction: “In five minutes, we saw what we’ve missed for 11 months, and we hope to see him back in full form,” he told DAZN.
While waiting for a potential call-up, Diao could participate in Senegal’s upcoming friendlies, including a match against Peru on March 28 in Paris and against Gambia on March 31 at the Stade Abdoulaye Wade, if his fitness allows.
