Diao: Como talent rejects Spain to help Senegal in World Cup qualification | OneFootball

Como talent Assane Diao has decided to represent Senegal, his birth nation, at senior international level, instead of Spain whom he represented throughout his youth career.

Diao earns first international call-up: Senegal over Spain

Diao has earned his first ever senior call-up for the upcoming set of international fixtures in March. He will be part of the Senegal squad due to face Sudan and Togo in 2026 World Cup qualification on March 22 and March 25, joining the likes of Edouard Mendy, Kalidou Koulibaly and Sadio Mane.

Diao had represented Spain at U18, U19 and U21 levels while he was still playing for Real Betis, but has decided to switch allegiance for his senior career.

Assane Diao (In action with Real Betis) reacts during the UEFA Conference League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Real Betis Balompie and HJK Helsinki at Estadio Benito Villamarin on December 19, 2024 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Under the current FIFA regulations, players are able to swap nations at senior level as well, provided that they have no more than three games before the age of 21, have not played in the final stage of a major tournament, and have not played internationally for at least three years.

As Diao is still 19 years of age, three caps within the next 18 months will mean that he is committed to playing for Senegal permanently.

The Como talent has been a revelation since joining from Real Betis for a fee of around €12m in January. He has since scored five goals from his first 10 appearances in Serie A.