Assane Diao steals Como fans’ hearts

At just 19 years old, Assane Diao, has exploded into the hearts of Como 1907 fans in a very short space of time. The Spanish winger made the move from Real Betis to Lake Como at the start of the January transfer window but has quickly made an impact. Diao candidly admits that his start has exceeded even his own expectations. “No, the truth is that I didn’t imagine starting like this,” he says. “Of course, it was what I wanted and hoped, but I was also aware that this is a difficult league and that the initial impact could have been complicated. Thanks to my teammates and the coaching staff, however, I adapted very well straight away.”

A talent courted by other clubs, his decision to join Como was guided by a conversation with Cesc Fàbregas. When asked why he chose Como despite interest from other clubs, Diao points to this conversation with Fàbregas as pivotal. “I spoke with Fàbregas, who explained the project, the vision, and what he had in mind for me and for the development of the team. It was very important to speak directly with him; after the chat, I had no more doubts and I chose Como.”

His move hasn’t gone unnoticed back in Spain. “In the past, maybe few people knew the team, but now they are talking about it. There are a few Spanish players here now, and the project is certainly interesting. I believe that anyone who has had the opportunity to see a game has been impressed by the style of play, and for this, there is interest.”

Adjusting to Serie A and life in Italy has been a smooth process for Diao, thanks to the support he has received. “It’s a very intense and competitive league. In the first three games I played, I was helped a lot by my teammates and the coaching staff because it’s never easy to fit into a new set up. I haven’t had the chance to see much of the City yet, but everyone has spoken very highly of it. I am very happy to be in Italy, a country with a great history both from a sporting and cultural point of view; it is an honour to be here.”

Reflecting on his first meeting with Fàbregas, Diao shares the sense of reassurance and motivation he felt. “He told me that I arrived in a team with great teammates and great plans and that he will help me grow on a footballing and personal level.”

Diao embraces the competition within the squad, which now includes Nico Paz, Fadera, and Cutrone in attacking roles. “In the end, I believe that Como’s project is clear. The club wants to grow, and to grow, you need everyone’s contribution. I’m happy to have strong teammates like them. Competition helps you to grow and reach your goals.”

His adaptability on the pitch is another strength. While he thrives in wide areas, he’s also willing to play as a striker if needed. “Yes, I also like to play as a striker. I’m an outside player who likes to find space, but if necessary, I also like to be closer to the penalty area.”

Diao draws inspiration from Betis legend Joaquín Sánchez and Sadio Mané, players he admires for both their talent and character. “All Betis players love Joaquín; he is an example and a reference point, and to see him wear the Betis shirt for so many years was brilliant. He is definitely a legend of the club. Also, a player I love a lot is Sadio Mané, not only because he is one of the best footballers in the world but also because of his humility and everything he has done for Senegal.”

Winning the U-19 European Championship with Spain remains a career highlight for Diao. “Yes, right now it is definitely the most important trophy I have won. But I like to think that this summer I will have the chance to play in the U-20 World Cup, an even more important trophy.”

He also clears up a long-standing story about his family’s supposed lottery win. “In Spain, this story keeps getting around, but it’s not really true. Someone in my family won a lottery contest, but long after I arrived in Spain; these things are not related to each other.”

Diao remains close to his twin brother, who still plays at Betis. “He plays at Betis. I am very close to him, and I hope, indeed I have no doubt, that in the future I will also meet him on a football pitch.”

Assane Diao’s time at Como 1907 is only just beginning, but as Cesc told BLU “Diao has physicality, quality, and the hunger to improve—exactly the kind of young player we’ve been searching for.”