With each passing transfer window, the old joke of Abou Diaby being ‘just like a new signing’ is battered against Arsenal fans’ ears like a rusty drum. In the past few years it has transformed from some light-hearted banter to a well-placed distraction – one that blurs what has been nothing short of a mild tragedy.
In his eleven years as a professional footballer, 28-year-old Diaby has only managed to make more than 30 appearances in a season in two campaigns – Arsenal’s 2008/09 and 2009/10 crusades. Major/niggling injuries have crippled the midfielder’s chances of appearing regularly for his team since his early twenties. This pattern significantly worsened last season, with the Frenchman only taking to the pitch for one game as a substitute against Norwich.
What intensifies this injustice is Abou’s ability. When the injury-rich wonder is at his best, he is unstoppable. Arguably one of the best box-to-box midfielders in Europe – Diaby manages to pull off satisfyingly physical performances with the elegance of a ballerina. Although players that can travel the length of the pitch without breaking a sweat are commonplace, very few – if any – can do so with such graceful strides and baroque dribbling. The Frenchman’s style is without a doubt one of the most original in the Premier League, and it is a shame Arsenal fans haven’t been blessed with more opportunities to watch the 6’3” artist work his magic.
But perhaps it’s time for Lady Luck to make amends. With Arsenal’s medical team seeing personnel changes and Diaby’s injuries healing in time for pre-season – this could finally be the year we get to see the real Abou Diaby.
At 28-years-old, you get the feeling that this is the Frenchman’s last chance to impress before he sees his name printed on Arsenal’s transfer list. Arsene Wenger has shown incredible patience towards Diaby – but club necessity comes before individual player needs. If the player can’t sort out his poor appearance record, then Arsenal would be forced to look for a replacement. However, I have no doubt that Le Professeur will give Abou a run in the team next season, and I have great confidence in Diaby’s desire to reward Wenger’s patience and fulfil his potential.
The reason is simple – Diaby’s professionalism is outstanding. His work ethic, dedication, and commitment to the club are awe-inspiring. Not once has Abou moaned about his bad luck. Not once has he been pictured sulking in a night club or bar. The Frenchman is a model professional. When he’s not fit to start – he’s training. When he’s not fit to train – he’s trying his best to regain fitness. And most importantly of all, when he is fit to play – he gives his all for the club on the pitch.
It would be a humungous injustice for a player with such a strong mental attitude to not have his stupendous conduct rewarded. We’ve already witnessed players with similarly tough careers fulfil their potential at the club – Aaron Ramsey being a recent example – and I think Diaby will continue this trend. Nothing is impossible when you have the right attitude.
So, when he does step onto the pitch next season – make sure to shower him with encouragement. Every Arsenal fan agrees that we need another top quality midfielder this summer. However, there is every chance that world-class addition might come from inside the club.
Will Diaby finally turn the joke on us? Will he really be just like a new signing next season? Let us know what you think in the comments.