French defender excited to be in Montreal under Garde
The role of a center back can be quite complex. Not only are they expected to provide crunching tackles and be superior in their aerial abilities, they’re also expected to have the technical skills to provide quality passes coming out of their zone and start the attack. And if you can get a player that’s physically gifted and larger than most, well then that’s just an added bonus.
At 6’4’’, 194 pounds, the Impact’s newest addition in defense, Zakaria Diallo, is larger than most, and is as complete a central defender as you can find in MLS.
“I have the profile of a more attacking player,” said Diallo. “I love coming out with the ball and trying to launch the attack as cleanly as possible. I’m very athletic and love duelling with players, but I’m also good on the ball. That’s what the best defenders do, they know how to associate both aspects of the game at the same time.”
Diallo comes to MLS on the heels of an excellent season with Stade Brestois 29 in Ligue 2, France’s second division, where he was named to the league’s best XI at the end of the season, after scoring three goals in 33 games started. The 31-year-old defender has no shortage of talent, which he combines with an excellent work ethic.
“Talent is not enough,” explained Diallo. “You have to put the work in, nothing is given. It’s as simple as that. Me, I’m ready to work. I’m very motivated for this season and will really give it my all. Having a French coach pushed me to come here, it was very important for me.”
He’s talking about Rémi Garde of course, the Impact’s head coach. Although Diallo never played for any of Garde’s team, he knew the coach by name and reputation from back home.
“Rémi Garde is a big-name coach that’s very respected in France,” explained Diallo. “I’ve never played under him, so I don’t know the details of his philosophy when it comes to football, but I know he’s a great coach that can bring a lot to my game.”
Garde, like Diallo, comes to Montreal with a clean slate, having never coached or played on this side of the pond before. A few years ago, both Garde and Diallo may not have known much about MLS, but things have moved forward exponentially for the league in recent years.
“MLS is a league that progresses year by year,” said Diallo. “With all the stars we’ve seen come here from Europe in recent years, the league has become very attractive for us French players. Being here today makes me very happy. I’m excited to discover everything and have a great season with the Montreal Impact. I’m ready for the challenge.”
