Aston Villa winger Moussa Diaby has struggled for starts at the Premier League outfit of late but Didier Deschamps remains confident that he can make his mark in the France squad following this week’s re-call.
Having not featured for his country since the March break 12 months ago, there were a few raised eyebrows when Moussa Diaby’s name appeared in Deschamps’ 23-man roster when it was announced on Thursday afternoon.
Bayer Leverkusen supporters could certainly be forgiven for wondering why Diaby – who was left out when in the midst of some superb form in Germany – has suddenly forced his way back in despite a series of underwhelming performances in Aston Villa colours.
Aston Villa man gets shock France re-call
Diaby has not started a Premier League game since January. The £50 million signing has only scored twice, meanwhile, in 2024, one coming in a confidence-boosting display in Thursday’s 4-0 thrashing of Ajax.
But Deschamps is confident that Diaby has something to offer as the France boss steps up his Euro 2024 preparations, leaving out Paris Saint-Germain speedster Bradley Barcola in favour of Villa’s number 19.
“Bradley Barcola is a player we are tracking. He needs to continue his development and confirm his good form. He’s a player with high potential and will be on Thierry Henry’s list,” Deschamps tells Get France Football News, Barcola expected to feature under the Arsenal legend at under-21 level later this month.
“Moussa will be with us. He has 10 caps. He is playing a bit less for his club, but he has shown some good things.
“And it’s his opportunity to make the most of this international break.”
Diaby’s club-record arrival was expected to take Aston Villa to an all-new level. instead, it is Leon Bailey who has that right-sided role nailed down under Unai Emery, Diaby’s former Leverkusen team-mate producing the best football of his Villa career following the addition of a man who was supposed to nab his place in the XI.
It remains to be seen, however, if that crashing finish against Ajax can prove to be something of a turning point.
Emery backs Moussa Diaby to bounce back
“I spoke with him,” Emery told the Birmingham Mail of Diaby a few weeks ago.
“I am happy with him. His commitment is high and his behaviour is fantastic. His performances haven’t been consistent but I can understand because he is in the process of understanding everything.
“He is adapting in the Premier League which is difficult. I don’t know if it’s more difficult than in Germany, but it is difficult.
“He is in the process and with this process I am happy. The most important thing for me is is the commitment and behaviour everyday. He is always with his team-mates practising and trying to improve.”
Diaby is one of three Premier League players in France’s squad. There is also a spot for West Ham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, Arsenal defender William Saliba and Liverpool ace Ibrahima Konate.
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