Dakar-born Lyon Midfielder Pape Cheikh Snubs Senegal For Spain

Lyon’s Pape Cheikh Diop has turned down an offer to play for his native Senegal, pledging his international future to Spain.

Diop, 21, left Senegal for Spain at 14 and helped them to European U-19 success in 2015 as well as played for the U-21s.

“I have been called by Senegal FA several times, but I remain committed to Spain,” the Dakar-born told Spanish newspaper Marca.

“Of course, I can never forget my origin, I am Senegalese, but I also feel Spanish.

Spain have given me everything and I want to give back in return. I am very happy with the decision I have made,” he added.

Diop is still eligible to play for the Teranga Lions since he has not earned a senior international cap with Spain.

The player is still in touch with where his footballing journey begun, Solar FC, Dakar despite his steady rise in Europe.

“Now I try to help out with everything I can: with clothes, kits, balls and whatever I can. The conditions are not easy down there and we have to help them,” he said.

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