He is the surprise guest of this first list of the post-Euro France team. Like Aurélien Tchouameni, Jordan Veretout and Theo Hernandez, Moussa Diaby (22) was called by Didier Deschamps for this rally with 3 qualifying matches at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar against Bosnia, Ukraine and Finland. Smiling and not too intimidated, the attacking midfielder of Bayer Leverkusen, trained at PSG, told of his joy at a first summons to the A after selections in U18, U19, U20 and Espoirs this Monday at Clairefontaine during the press conference . Arrived at Bayer Leverkusen in 2019, the player who started his career at Esperance Paris XIX, has become in just 24 months a key player in the Bundesliga.
How did you experience your first steps with the A’s at the Château de Clairefontaine?
MOUSSA DIABY. I am very happy to be here. I have known several players in this group. They came when I arrived to explain to me how things are going, how to behave well… We are going to have a good time together.
What did you think of the course of the Blues at the Euro?
I was disappointed with the elimination of the France team. Now we have to look ahead with these three qualifying matches of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. These are 3 games that must be won.
Did you expect this first selection in the A?
I started to check some boxes to get closer to the selection. I did my best on and off the pitch to get there. I will try to fit in well.
What did Bayer Leverkusen bring you?
I arrived in Germany in 2019. I’m very happy to play in a big league and for a team that gives young people responsibilities. I learned a lot at Leverkusen and especially improved in efficiency.
Do you have a favorite job?
I am able to play on both sides on the left and on the right. Now I will go where I am asked to play. The main thing is to get together on the ground. I will try to do my best. We will see what playing time I will have in his 3 games but one thing is certain, I will give my all.
What dreams and goals did you have when you wore the Esperance Paris XIXth colors from 10 to 14 years old?
My goal was quite simply to become a professional player one day. When I got there, I wanted to play in the Champions League and then join the France team. Everything is not yet perfect, but I am staying tuned to become even better. I am proud of my career.
Would you be in the France team today if you had stayed at PSG in 2019?
I don’t know, that’s a tough question. If I had stayed at PSG and had played at my level at Leverkusen, I think I would have had a chance to be called up.
Have you spoken with Kylian Mbappé?
Yes. He just congratulated me on this first call. Then we laughed and ate together but we didn’t talk about his future.
