What You Need to Know
Spanish coach Cesc Fabregas is facing severe criticism from Senegalese fans following the injury of player Assan Diallo, which jeopardizes his participation in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025. Diallo was injured during a match between Como and Roma, leading to an outcry from supporters who feel Fabregas’s decision to play him was reckless.
Africa. Spanish coach Cesc Fabregas is facing severe criticism from Senegalese fans following the injury of Assan Diallo, which jeopardizes his participation in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025.
Fabregas played Diallo, who was returning from injury, as a starter in the match between Como and Roma in the 15th round of Serie A. However, the Senegalese player suffered a new injury that prevented him from completing the match on the day he was supposed to be in the Senegal national team’s camp.
After initiating a counterattack following a corner kick for Roma, Diallo (20 years old) ran the length of the field before shooting a ball that was saved by Roma’s goalkeeper, Ivan Ndika. After this effort, the player fell to the ground, unable to continue the match.
Diallo left the field in tears in the 38th minute, where he was substituted by Fabregas for his teammate, Anastasios Douvikas, which ignited the anger of Senegalese fans.
Fabregas stated, “Regarding Diallo, I prefer not to delve too much into the matter. He was called up, and I spoke with him after the Inter match. He knows my opinion well, and I also spoke personally with his national team coach; frankly, it was not a comfortable conversation.”
He added in a press conference after the 0-1 loss to Roma, “He suffered an injury to his hamstring. I am one of the strongest supporters of national teams and hope everyone can join them.”
Fabregas continued, “I asked the Senegal coach not to call him up because he has played very few matches over the past eight months, and his response was that if he doesn’t come now, he won’t participate in the World Cup. That was frustrating; it’s not fair.”
Fabregas concluded, “I played him (against Roma) because he will leave tomorrow (Tuesday) and will not be with us for five weeks. Since we pay his salary, it’s better for him to play a little with us.”
These statements did not sit well with the angry Senegalese fans, who expressed their displeasure towards the Spanish coach with insults and derogatory comments, according to the French site “Sport.”
Some Senegalese posted comments featuring images of pig heads on Fabregas’s social media accounts, in a retaliatory reaction, as described by the site.
The crisis between Senegal and Fabregas has reached a peak; however, the real victim here is Diallo, whose participation in his first Africa Cup of Nations is now highly uncertain.
It is worth noting that Diallo has participated with Como this season in 8 matches across all competitions, totaling 349 minutes, without scoring or assisting any goals.
The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is a prestigious football tournament held every two years, featuring national teams from across Africa. Senegal has a rich footballing history and has produced many talented players, making them a strong contender in international competitions. The relationship between club coaches and national teams can often be tense, especially when player injuries occur, as seen in this situation with Fabregas and Diallo.
Cesc Fabregas, a former Spanish international, has transitioned into coaching after a successful playing career. His decisions as a coach are scrutinized, particularly when they impact players’ national team prospects.
