Issa Diop has so far seemed a really good signing for West Ham United.
Brought in from Toulouse for a then a club record fee, the young central defender has already made himself an important part of Manuel Pellegrini’s side.
He appears to have a good attitude on and off the pitch, and a maturity which goes beyond his 21 years.
Speaking to French newspaper L’Equipe over the past week, Diop questioned whether those praising him so much this season are going over the top, because he doesn’t think he’s been doing anything special.
When that interview was conducted, Diop hadn’t been called up by France’s U21 side, to the surprise of many in the country’s sport media. That’s changed after an injury withdrawal, and since arriving at the camp he’s spoken to FootMercato.
Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho recently praised the defender, and FootMercato suggested that would be flattering: “Yes, of course it’s nice. But my coach is Manuel Pellegrini (laughs). So it’s his opinion that interests me the most. He advises me to continue to progress.”
Another spot on answer from Diop, which will please West Ham fans.
Undeterred, FootMercato then put the following question over: “It is said that Manchester United would have an eye on you. Do you have a career plan already in mind?”
Diop responded: “Not at all. I’m at West Ham right now. I take the most pleasure from this. I try to give the best possible performance.”
There hasn’t really been a bunch of Manchester United links, unless we’ve completely missed them, but the youngster clearly isn’t keen on talking the prospect up.
On choosing the transfer in the summer, he explained: “I think it was the right time to leave. West Ham is the club that wanted me the most, where there was the most affinity. The project interested me. That’s why I chose them. There were other clubs that were interested. But in my head, it was West Ham. The choice was quickly made… For me, it’s a good thing. I do not think you have to go through an intermediary club or anything like that. West Ham wanted me a lot. There is no reason why it does not work.”
Finally, Diop was asked about the €25m West Ham paid for him and encouraged to consider how high his value may be now: “No, it’s always hard to give a number. Even if for me it seems unreal, it’s like that. It’s the market, it’s football that’s like that.”
