Aliou Dieng’s future at FC Valence is not currently under threat, despite recent reports in the Spanish media suggesting the Mali international could leave the club.
Khaled Maghraby, the midfielder’s agent, told Africafoot that no decision had been made over a departure during the January transfer window. He said a winter separation was not being considered, as questions continue to be raised in Spain about Dieng’s reduced playing time.
The Spanish newspaper AS recently reported that FC Valence’s management wanted to part company with the midfielder, arguing that his performances had not met the club’s expectations. However, that account differs from the position communicated by the player’s representatives, who say there has been no concrete move to arrange a transfer.
Al Ahly aware of possible return
Africafoot also contacted a member of Al Ahly’s management to establish whether the Egyptian club had been approached about a potential return for Dieng.
The official said the reports circulating about the situation had reached the club and that Dieng had been asked about the possibility of returning to Al Ahly. According to the same information, the midfielder said he had not been contacted by any FC Valence official regarding a possible departure.
Dieng is also understood to have made clear that, if he were to leave the Spanish club, his priority would be to return to Al Ahly. That preference reflects his attachment to the Cairo-based club, where he played before moving to Spain, but it does not amount to confirmation that negotiations over a transfer are taking place.
Dieng’s playing time has fallen
Dieng joined FC Valence from Al Ahly at the start of the season on a free transfer. He featured in the club’s first five La Liga matches but was left on the bench for the following two games.
That change in his involvement has led to questions over his position in the plans of his manager, although the statements from his agent and the information provided by Al Ahly do not point to an imminent move away from Spain.
The midfielder developed his reputation primarily as a defensive midfielder. During his time in Egypt, he was noted for his physical strength, ball-winning ability and contribution to maintaining the team’s balance.
His spell with Al Ahly lasted several seasons and included national and continental honours. The club therefore remains a significant part of his career, as well as his stated first choice should a future departure from FC Valence eventually become necessary.
For now, Dieng’s situation is expected to become clearer over the coming weeks as his playing time develops and the January transfer window approaches.
FC Valence will soon play their eighth league match of the season against Racing Santander.