Former Tottenham midfielder Didier Zokora hails Ousmane Diomande’s transfer to Nottingham Forest as one of the standout deals of the summer window, backing his fellow Ivorian to make an immediate impact in the Premier League.
The twenty-two-year-old defender completed a forty-five million euro move from Sporting Club de Portugal, committing to a five-year contract under manager Oliver Glasner and finally concluding years of speculation regarding a high-profile switch to England.
Zokora Backs the Move
Zokora ranks the transfer as the top summer move for any Ivorian player, emphasizing the physical demands of English football as the necessary next step in Diomande’s development.
“As a former Premier League player, I can tell you that this is the perfect move for Ousmane,” he told Africa Foot.
“Portugal was great for learning tactical discipline, but to become a global powerhouse, you need to experience the physical battles of English football week in, week out.
“Reuniting with Sangaré at Forest will give him a massive foundation. The kid from Abobo is ready to conquer the Premier League!”
Kanté Shares the Enthusiasm
Cédric Kanté echoes this sentiment, placing the transfer second in his personal top five rankings and viewing the move as a natural progression for the young centre-back.
“His move to the Premier League comes as no surprise. It had been in the works for some time,” he told Africa Foot.
“For both Sporting Lisbon and the player, himself, it was hard to turn down Forest’s offer. He has the qualities to make his mark. Diomandé has developed significantly in Portugal; he is a physical, imposing defender who also possesses genuine technical ability.
“This move to England will undoubtedly allow him to continue his development and elevate his status within the Ivorian national team.”
Diomande arrives at Nottingham Forest with heavy expectations, yet his blend of tactical intelligence from Portugal and imposing physical traits positions him well to thrive in England. As both Zokora and Kanté highlight, this high-profile transfer marks a defining milestone for the young defender and sets the stage for a major impact on both club and international stages.
