Bafode Diakite 2019/20 – scout report

Toulouse have been struggling in Ligue 1 this season. Theyre dead last, having collected merely 13 points from winning three games, drawing four, and losing an outstanding amount of 21 games. Its certainly a spectacular tally, though not spectacular in a good way. Their performances this season have undoubtedly been poor. Theyre both the least prolific team (22 goals scored) and have the most goals conceded (58 goals conceded). And just before the postponement of Ligue 1, they were on a six-game losing streak and to make it more painful, they also havent won a single game from week 11 until week 28.

This is rather strange considering they have a couple of highly talented players in the team. One of them being Bafodé Diakité. The 2001-born centre-back has been showing impressive development as well as interesting displays this season having been promoted from Toulouse U19 and made his debut last season. Though he was struggling with a couple of injuries this season, hes always able to regain fitness quickly and get back to the starting lineup as soon as possible.

At 19 years old, Diakité is already a vital member of the first-team and he may certainly be significantly important in the future if Toulouse can keep hold of him.

In this tactical analysis/scout report, well take a closer look at Diakités abilities and how he plays in Toulouses tactics.

Physicality and athleticism

Looking at the way he plays, Diakité relies a lot on his physicality and athleticism both in attack and defence, though his contributions are most visible in defence. Diakité is 1.85 m (603) tall and has a medium build, not too muscular nor skinny. He seems to have decently developed upper and lower muscles.

Diakité is particularly strong in aerial duels. He may not be a towering defender but his height is good enough to help him reach good vertical height when leaping, especially when combined with the power he has in his lower body. And when engaging in physical duels both in the air and on the ground, his impressive strength gives him great advantages as not only he can push his opponent(s) away and connect his head with the ball when in the air but he can be a difficult man to contain when on the ground.

Diakité can be quite aggressive and physical when duelling for the ball, using his strong body and limbs to gain an edge and make it difficult for his opponent to make perfect contact with the ball.