Whatever happened to Pape Demba Diop, top scorer at the 2023 U20 AFCON?

In 2023, Senegal, Africa and the whole world discovered an exceptional talent. His name: Pape Demba Diop. Although nothing had hinted at it beforehand, the Ouakam native lit up the U20 AFCON. The midfielder finished as top scorer with 6 goals in 6 games.

That outstanding showing also saw Pape Demba Diop named in the team of the tournament, alongside a certain Lamine Camara (the tournament's MVP). The player who came through at Diambars, who had left Senegal a year earlier for Zulte Waregem, is still at the Belgian club, where he has become an undroppable fixture in the meantime.

Back to his best after a serious injury

Pape Demba Diop is shining this season in the Belgian second division. As decisive as ever in front of goal, the central midfielder has scored 6 goals and provided as many assists. He has even been voted the best player in the Belgian second division this season. Proof that he is as decisive and influential as ever.

Read also: U20 AFCON: who will be the new king of Africa?

But things could have turned out very differently for the player, who was born in 2003. After the 2023 U20 AFCON in Algeria, Pape Demba Diop missed five months of action with an adductor injury. He was only able to play 8 games in the 2023-2024 season. But fortunately for him and for Senegal, he has rediscovered his rhythm and is thriving in the current campaign, in which he has led his team to the title, which means a return to the 1st division.

When will he get a senior call-up?

Under contract until 2028, Pape Demba Diop could attract interest from clubs as early as this summer. His profile as a creative box-to-box midfielder, able to score and deliver killer passes, could appeal to plenty of clubs.

Furthermore, given his progress, Pape Thiaw could also note his name down for the next senior national team squads of Senegal.