Fabregas says Assane Diao going to AFCON with Senegal would be illogical and risky

Cesc Fabregas has insisted it would be illogical for Assane Diao to travel to the Africa Cup of Nations while still recovering from injury.

The Arsenal and Chelsea legend, now coaching in Serie A, stressed that the young winger’s long-term fitness must take priority.

Diao, who is Senegalese, joined Como 1907 in the 2024/25 mid-season window for €12 million. At just 20, he quickly became a key figure under Fabregas, scoring eight goals and providing one assist in 15 Serie A appearances.

However, the winger suffered a broken foot late last season, ruling him out of both the campaign’s final matches and the early part of the current one.

He has gradually returned to action but remains vulnerable.

Fabregas revealed that Diao had an adductor issue before joining Senegal’s training camp. Despite completing two sessions, he now faces a hamstring injury, raising concerns over his participation in AFCON.

“I don’t want to send him to the African Cup of Nations? For me, it’s illogical,” the Spanish tactician said, according to Goal.

“He’s been out for seven months, he’s played three games, now he’s going to the national team, he’ll get injured and be out again. Then maybe he’ll go back to Senegal. In the player’s mind, you have to do things right. For me, it doesn’t make sense.”

Fabregas emphasized that the decision is driven by concern for Diao’s development and long-term career rather than national team politics. “They won’t care, but we want what’s best for the player. He shouldn’t go,” Fabregas added.

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