Ligi Kuu Bara: Hamdi reveals Yanga’s conditions to release ‘undeniable’ Diarra

Young Africans head coach Miloud Hamdi has come out to explain why the club will not easily release first-choice goalkeeper Djigui Diarra in the coming transfer window.

While admitting that the Mainland Premier League champions are yet to receive any offers for the Malian custodian, Hamdi stated that for the player to leave they will have to get a quality replacement.

“Releasing Diarra is not as simple as it is being talked about,” said Hamdi. “Finding a goalkeeper of his caliber is very difficult. Everyone knows how important he has been to this team.”

“If Diarra were to leave, I would only agree if we brought in the best possible replacement – because players like him are rare.”

With reports in Tanzania claiming that Yanga management have already approved the exit of Diarra, Hamdi remained adamant that the goalkeeper was still good enough to stay at the club.

“You might say it hasn’t been his best season but I don’t focus solely on the goals conceded – defending is a collective responsibility,” he said.

“Diarra’s quality is undeniable. It’s fortunate for Tanzanian football that a goalkeeper of his ability is playing here; he could easily compete in Europe. He deserves huge credit for everything he’s done for the club.”

Hamdi concluded: “Modern football demands goalkeepers who can build from the back, and Diarra excels at that. His composure with the ball at his feet and his quick decision-making are top-class.” Diarra, who joined Yanga four years ago, has managed to play 88 matches in all competitions conceding only 34 goals.