Ousmane Diomande, 22-year-old central defender from Sporting Portugal (contract until 2027) and Ivory Coast, is one of the players who have been mentioned in Paris Saint-Germain’s sights for the transfer window. A rumor commented on by Arthur Boka, former Ivorian international who played notably in Strasbourg and Stuttgart, on the microphone ofAfricafoot. He was clear about the choice his compatriot must make.
« PSG is a springboard, but the competition is fierce in defense. »
“He has the ability to play in the most demanding championships in Europe, but the choice of club must be considered so as not to slow down his progress. He must continue to play regularly, remain in a competitive environment, while being challenged by his teammates.
PSG is a springboard, but the competition is fierce in defense. For Diomandé, it is a risky bet if regularity of play is not guaranteed. He could gain notoriety, but lose playing time, which is essential for his progress and his place in the national team. (…) Diomandé must choose a club where he will be challenged, but above all where he will play. »
We can understand this position, even if it is certainly not pleasant for Parisian supporters who would like to see this young talent join Paris. The point of view at least makes sense, Diomande to seek more playing time elsewhere. However, we can also point out that this is not a guarantee of success. And signing for PSG can also bring great things.
What we already have for other players, so many young talents trained at the club who obtain playing time (Warren Zaire-Emery, Senny Mayulu, Ibrahim Mbaye) and place in the selection (Zaire-Emery and Mbaye again, but also Désiré Doué, Bradley Barcola…). There are great examples of success. The competition is there, there are a lot of matches and confidence. As well as real progress, both collective and individual.
It’s far from an easy choice, there are advantages and disadvantages. It also depends on discussions with the staff, the player’s confidence in himself, his mentality, his abilities, etc. Everyone can have an external preference, but we never have all the elements. However, we can still point out that there are examples which show that signing for PSG is far from necessarily being a career slowdown. But some struggle more, like Lucas Beraldo (22-year-old defender).
