"Ideally, I see myself at a top club, among the five best in the world. I believe I have the potential, if I work hard. I’ve only been playing professional football for two years, I’m patient," Diouf said in an interview with Wiw Sport. His honesty, however, met with criticism, especially as recent matches exposed his biggest weakness. "Right now, he’s far from that level. He needs to learn how to defend," one fan responded. Others pointed out that saying such things halfway through his first season at a club fighting to stay up seems out of touch with reality.
Coach Nuno Espírito Santo, however, stands by his young defender. Even before the match against Burnley, he described him as an uncut gem. "He’s a diamond. He’s rough around the edges, but that’s normal. He’s a great kid and works hard," he said. Nuno also mentioned the player who inspires Diouf—Nuno Mendes from PSG—whose progress in recent years serves as motivation for the Senegalese international. "Two years ago, he wasn’t the best defensively. Now he’s strong. He’s an example," Diouf added.
Statistics show why he’s being talked about in England. He’s the first defender in the top five European leagues to record three assists this season. He’s had a big impact going forward, and his crossing is among the best at West Ham. Defense, however, remains an issue, which has been clear in some matches.
That’s why some fans are keeping their emotions in check. They remind others that West Ham signed the twenty-year-old defender from Slavia with the idea that he could one day be sold for a much higher fee. "Everyone wants to play for the best clubs. If he gets there through us, it’ll be a success for West Ham too," one response said.