Assane Diao: Enterprising Como youngster nears full recovery

Senegal youngster Assane Diao will soon delight Como fans with his blistering performance as he nears full recovery for the Italian Serie A club.

The 20-year-old striker resumed training this week, two months after his right hamstring injury forced him to withdraw from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) where Senegal defeated hosts Morocco 1-0 to win their second continental trophy.

The former Spain junior international, who now has two caps for the Teranga Lions, made his long-awaited return to training this week.

Assane Diao missed the 2025 AFCON in Morocco

The 20-year-old, injured during a match against AS Roma on December 15, 2025, saw his absence extended but he is gradually warming his way into manager Cesc Fabregas squad who are eying a European spot for next season.

Diao appeared comfortable during training with no physical discomfort but reports indicate that he might not make the match day squad for Como’s clash against giants Juventus on Saturday.

He is however expected to make a swift return to the team for the home game against Lecce on February 28.

Assane Diao’s return to competition would come a month before the March international break, during which the 2021 and 2025 African champions will face Peru on March 28, at the Stade de France in Paris and Gambia on March 31, at the Stade Abdoulaye-Wade in friendlies.

Before the international break, Como will have six matches to play, including the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final against Inter Milan and Diao will have time to convince Senegal coach Pape Thiaw.