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Despite being an open secret for some time, Barcelona only officially confirmed the signing of young African talent Ibrahim Diarra for the reserves earlier this month.
The youngster, who made headlines after his impressive campaign with Mali in the U-17 World Cup, has just turned 18 and Barcelona immediately took the opportunity to make his arrival official and secure his future.
After all, he is widely seen as one of Africa’s brightest talents in recent years and is considered to have great potential as a striker.
Diarra’s coach appears before the media
Speaking to the media (h/t SPORT), Mali U-20 international team coach Soumaila Coulibaly shared his opinion on Barcelona’s new signing and the potential he sees in the youngster.
He began by describing Diarra’s profile and explaining what the Catalans can expect from the player.
“He has the classic profile of a Barça footballer for a long time. Left-footed, powerful, good one-on-one and moves very well between the lines, between the defense and breaks the game when the opponent is compact.” -he began.
“In addition, he is decisive when it comes to stepping up when necessary.” he added.
The manager was then asked what he thought of Diarra when he first saw him, to which he replied:
“The first time I saw him was when he came with the team in the cadet category. “I told everyone that he would be the one to qualify for the African Cup of Nations.”
“You can ask your former president or the others who were present, only I believed in him,” he added.
Speaking about what the attacker must develop to be prepared for a team like Barcelona, Coulibaly said:
“He is very good, but logically he still has to develop in all facets of the game. I think that joining Barça now is the best news for him, due to his age and his ability to grow and develop his potential.”
Despite admitting that Diarra has a long way to go, his international coach refused to rule out the possibility of making his debut under Hansi Flick this season.
“It is possible, I think a debut could happen. If he is physically well he will be able to demonstrate many things and Flick will surely be attentive.”
Once the young man’s profile was detailed, the coach was asked to compare him with a player from the past or present, to which he responded:
“It reminds me of Rivaldo or Lamine Yamal. Left-handed with similar characteristics. But, of course, he must continue on his way.”
“For me, he is the greatest talent in Mali at the moment, without a doubt.” he added.
Finally, he gave his verdict on whether the forward had what it took to succeed at Barcelona.
“Yes, although to do this you must work hard and above all believe in yourself, have faith and confidence. “He has the quality for it.”
