Leverkusen Manager on Diaby Return Rumors: 'He's Not Here Yet'

Speculation is mounting over the potential return of winger Moussa Diaby to Bayer Leverkusen, with sporting director Simon Rolfes offering a characteristically cautious response. While not outright denying the possibility, Rolfes indicated that the transfer is far from complete, stating with a smile, "He's not here yet." His comments came during the 'Rheinische Fußballgipfel' event hosted by 'Rheinische Post'.

Despite Rolfes' measured words, consistent media reports suggest that Bayer Leverkusen has indeed reached an agreement with Al-Ittihad FC, Diaby's current club in Saudi Arabia. The French winger previously played for Leverkusen for four years, from 2019 to 2023, before making a high-profile move to Aston Villa in the English Premier League in the summer of 2023 for a reported 50 million euros.

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He's not here yet.

Rolfes also reflected on Diaby's development, noting the player's growth since his initial arrival at Leverkusen at the age of 20. "You have to clarify beforehand what the expectations are for the player," Rolfes commented. "He came to us at 20, now he's 27 years old and a different player. He also has a different impact in the dressing room than when he was 20."

During his previous tenure with the "Werkself," Diaby was a significant contributor, scoring 49 goals and providing 47 assists in 172 appearances. Reports now indicate that Bayer Leverkusen is prepared to pay approximately 30 million euros for the 27-year-old's return, a figure considerably lower than his previous transfer fee.

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You have to clarify beforehand what the expectations are for the player. He came to us at 20, now he's 27 years old and a different player. He also has a different impact in the dressing room than when he was 20.