Assane Diao has rejected Spain and has opted to represent Senegal at the senior level. The 19-year-old previously featured for Spain’s U18, U19, and U21 teams.

Diao has been in impressive form since joining Serie A side Como in January, catching the attention of Senegal’s senior men’s national team head coach, Pape Thiaw. Thiaw recently traveled to Spain to meet with Diao, and he shared details of their conversation with the Senegalese press:

“It’s true that I went to Spain and spoke with Assane, who always showed me that his choice was a choice of the heart. He always dreamed of representing Senegal. I think Senegalese blood runs through his veins, and I have confidence in that. When I talked to this kid, he was eager.”

Born in Senegal, Diao moved to Spain at the age of three. He is among six new players called up by Pape Thiaw as Senegal strengthens its squad.