Andy Diouf’s first call-up under Zinedine Zidane could open an unexpected route for both France and Inter, with the 23-year-old selected as a left-back rather than in the midfield role he regards as his natural position.
Zidane has included Diouf in his first 23-man France squad and may hand him a debut against Vincenzo Montella’s Turkey as early as tonight. The new France coach sees the former Lens player as an answer on the left side of a defence that has become an area of concern during the transition from the Didier Deschamps era.
A vacancy on France’s left
France are entering Zidane’s reign with major changes around the squad. Around ten players from the previous World Cup group have been omitted, including former Milan defender Theo Hernandez, his brother Lucas Hernandez and Lucas Digne.
Lucas Hernandez won the 2018 World Cup as a left-back but has not been a regular starter for Paris Saint-Germain. Digne, who featured at the latest World Cup, left Aston Villa for PSG after that tournament but has also found limited space under Luis Enrique.
That leaves Zidane searching for a reliable option on the flank. Diouf has been called in specifically to operate at left-back, a role that could allow him to support attacks from wide areas while preserving the balance demanded by the new manager.
Inter’s versatile signing
Diouf arrived at Inter from Lens in a €25 million deal and has already shown his willingness to adapt. Cristian Chivu has used him on the right side, rather than as a central midfielder, after the late departure of Denzel Dumfries left the Nerazzurri needing cover in that area.
Playing on the right has enabled the Frenchman, who has Ivorian roots, to attack inside onto his stronger foot. Yet the player has made clear that his long-term preference remains in the middle of the pitch.
“My aim is to return to midfield as soon as possible,” Diouf said recently, adding that he does not consider himself either a full-back or a winger.
France, however, may offer another direction. Zidane’s decision is born of necessity, but a successful international spell at left-back would also strengthen Inter’s investment in a player who has already demonstrated the versatility required in a demanding season.
