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MountRoyalSoccer.com has learned that Zakaria Diallo has signed a contract with French Ligue 2 club, Lens, although confirmation has not yet been forthcoming from Montreal Impact.
The fee involved covering the transfer of the player is believed to be in the region of $150,000.
Diallo made 24 MLS appearances for the Impact, all this season, after joining the club in 2018 from then Ligue 2 side, Brest. He scored three goals, all away from home, and provided 2 assists.
Zakiaria Diallo also played in two Canadian Championship matches.
He was yellow-carded twice and was on the receiving end of a straight red card after tussling with Orlando’s Dominic Dwyer in his third appearance.
It’s been clear after a promising start to 2019, that something’s not been quite right with the player. His form dropped off dramatically, on occasion forcing coach Garde to leave the him out of the starting line-up, significant in that at one time Diallo looked an automatic choice.
There have been times recently when the player’s demeanour and lack of discipline in games has left spectators wondering if he’s even interested. His head certainly seemed to be in a different place than at Stade Saputo. Perhaps this explains it. The latest move, if confirmed, should not come as a surprise.
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Diallo’s slump in form has coincided with an Impact skid, particularly away from home where they have lost the last six in MLS.
Now they must persevere with Camacho and Raitala, and hope that Victor Cabrera makes a swift return from injury.
There is an international slot available to acquire a non-contracted player for the rest of the season. Given apparent developments, Impact fans will be hoping the front office has already been engaged, working away feverishly to find a quality replacement.