2016 NASL Young Player Of The Year Papé Diakité Returns For The Eddies

Photo credit: Tony Lewis/FC Edmonton

FC Edmonton announced today the re-signing of Senegalese defender and last season’s NASL Young Player of the Year Papé Diakité for the upcoming 2017 campaign. As per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Diakité played a critical role at center back last season on an FC Edmonton back line that conceded just 21 goals against in 32 matches. The 24-year-old contributed offensively as well, with three goals in 30 appearances for the club in 2016, helping lead the young defender to an NASL Young Player of the Year award and an NASL Best XI selection. 

“We are delighted to bring Papé back again this season,” FC Edmonton coach Colin Miller said. “Both him and Albert formed quite a formidable pairing together and complemented each other very well.”

Diakité’s re-signing solidifies a solid defensive presence for FC Edmonton that includes returning teammates such as Albert Watson and Shawn Nicklaw, as well as recent addition Netan Sansara.

“I think Papé has progressed as a player,” Miller added. “His match-day performances were very consistent last season and are why he became the NASL Young Player of the Year. Hopefully he can get even stronger this year. He is an integral part of our squad.”