Diouf talks about the dual role as a full-back: “With Inter I have more freedom”

Speaking to CBS Sports, Andy Diouf described his current situation, divided between the role he plays at Inter and the one entrusted to him in the French national team by Zidane, who deploys him as a left-back in a four-man defense.

“It was the first time I played on the left with the national team. At Inter, on the other hand, I play on the right. I try to stay focused every day, even during training. I also work a lot with the coach off the pitch, analyzing videos. I try to focus on these aspects,” said the player.

Asked how Zidane’s decision to use him on the left side of defense came about, Diouf replied without hesitation: “When Zidane tells me something like that, I can only answer: okay, I’m available and I want to play.”

On the comparison between the two tactical contexts, the player highlighted substantial differences. “I like it. It’s different, because sometimes I have to think like a defender. With Inter I have more freedom: I can play as I want and face my opponent one-on-one. In a four-man defense, instead, you have to think like a defender. You have to adapt quickly, because you don’t have time at your disposal.”

Diouf also spoke about his first call-up to the national team, describing it as an extraordinary experience. “It’s fantastic. It’s like a dream, because Zidane means so much to the French and to football in general. He’s very close to the players, and it’s really nice. Sometimes he even trains with the team. Yes, it’s really a great experience.”