Mamady Diarra: «He brought with him courage and determination»
Malian winger Mamady Diarra recently became the new player of FC Sheriff. His career has already included clubs from Spain and Hungary, as well as playing for the Malian national teams. During the first days in Tiraspol, Mamadi talked about himself, adaptation and goals in the new team.
- Mamady, welcome to FC Sheriff! What are your first impressions of the club and Tiraspol?
- “Sheriff” is a very hospitable club, disciplined and hardworking. Unfortunately, I have not had time to get acquainted with the city yet, but I can already see that it is a very calm place.
- How was the process of transition and adaptation in the new team?
- I feel great in training, and I have a good understanding with the guys. I hope it will quickly transfer to the game. I'm gradually getting used to the intense rhythm.
- You were born in Bamako and started your career in the club “Yellen”. What can you tell us about your first steps in soccer?
- "Yelen has been one of the best clubs in Mali for many years. I think that even now, despite the difficulties, it continues to nurture great soccer players.
- Then there was the move to Spain. How did you end up in the Cadiz system and how did those four years go?
- I passed the screening and signed a contract with Cadiz - all this was possible thanks to Frederic Kanoute, a former player of the national team of Mali and Sevilla. He also managed my academy. The first time in Spain was not easy because of the language and culture, but I adapted. I learned a lot at Cadiz, the people there are very kind and open.
- After Spain, you ended up in Hungary. What was memorable about the stage in Győr?
- It was another experience where I took an example from more experienced teammates. I became more confident, added to my understanding of the game and psychology.
- You were called up to the national team of your country. What does it mean for you to defend the colors of Mali?
- It is a great pride to represent my country. I had a chance to play at the U-17 and U-20 World Championships - it was an unforgettable experience.
- And participation in the final tournament of the U-20 World Cup - how do you remember that tournament?
- I was very young then. We lost, and I didn't even hold back my tears, but in general I was satisfied with my performance.
- Do you have a favorite dish? What do you prefer to eat?
- It's simple: rice and pasta. Nothing special.
- What do you like to do in your free time?
- I usually play my console or talk to my family on video calls.
- What is the first thing you took with you from home to Tiraspol?
- For me, the main thing is mentality. I brought with me from Mali courage and determination, because I know that many people will follow my performances.
- How can you describe yourself in three words - off the pitch?
- Well-mannered, efficient and a bit modest.
- What goals do you set for yourself in FC Sheriff?
- I came to Sheriff because it is a club that always fights for titles. This is a new important stage for me, and I want to prove myself in the European Cup. The goal is to help the team to win, score and give effective passes.
FC Sheriff press service
- Mamady, welcome to FC Sheriff! What are your first impressions of the club and Tiraspol?
- “Sheriff” is a very hospitable club, disciplined and hardworking. Unfortunately, I have not had time to get acquainted with the city yet, but I can already see that it is a very calm place.
- How was the process of transition and adaptation in the new team?
- I feel great in training, and I have a good understanding with the guys. I hope it will quickly transfer to the game. I'm gradually getting used to the intense rhythm.
- You were born in Bamako and started your career in the club “Yellen”. What can you tell us about your first steps in soccer?
- "Yelen has been one of the best clubs in Mali for many years. I think that even now, despite the difficulties, it continues to nurture great soccer players.
- Then there was the move to Spain. How did you end up in the Cadiz system and how did those four years go?
- I passed the screening and signed a contract with Cadiz - all this was possible thanks to Frederic Kanoute, a former player of the national team of Mali and Sevilla. He also managed my academy. The first time in Spain was not easy because of the language and culture, but I adapted. I learned a lot at Cadiz, the people there are very kind and open.
- After Spain, you ended up in Hungary. What was memorable about the stage in Győr?
- It was another experience where I took an example from more experienced teammates. I became more confident, added to my understanding of the game and psychology.
- You were called up to the national team of your country. What does it mean for you to defend the colors of Mali?
- It is a great pride to represent my country. I had a chance to play at the U-17 and U-20 World Championships - it was an unforgettable experience.
- And participation in the final tournament of the U-20 World Cup - how do you remember that tournament?
- I was very young then. We lost, and I didn't even hold back my tears, but in general I was satisfied with my performance.
- Do you have a favorite dish? What do you prefer to eat?
- It's simple: rice and pasta. Nothing special.
- What do you like to do in your free time?
- I usually play my console or talk to my family on video calls.
- What is the first thing you took with you from home to Tiraspol?
- For me, the main thing is mentality. I brought with me from Mali courage and determination, because I know that many people will follow my performances.
- How can you describe yourself in three words - off the pitch?
- Well-mannered, efficient and a bit modest.
- What goals do you set for yourself in FC Sheriff?
- I came to Sheriff because it is a club that always fights for titles. This is a new important stage for me, and I want to prove myself in the European Cup. The goal is to help the team to win, score and give effective passes.
FC Sheriff press service