Salif Diao

Why does Salif Diao play for Senegal?

Born in Kédougou, Senegal · Citizenship: France, Senegal

Short answer

Salif Diao plays for Senegal because he holds Senegalese nationality and chose to represent the country at senior level (first senior call-up on record: 2001).

Birthplace and citizenship

Salif Diao was born in Senegal; holds France and Senegal citizenship.

International career path

His international pathway, as recorded on Wikidata:

  • Senegal — senior level, 2001–2008

The rules in brief

A player can represent a country if they hold its nationality and have a genuine link to it: birth on its territory, a parent or grandparent born there, or several years of residency. Youth matches do not tie a player to a country. Since 2020, FIFA also lets a player switch once after a small number of senior appearances (no more than three, all before turning 21, none at a World Cup or continental finals) after a three-year wait.

Read our full guide to FIFA eligibility rules →

Frequently asked questions

Why does Salif Diao play for Senegal?

Salif Diao holds Senegalese nationality and chose to represent Senegal at senior level.

Where was Salif Diao born?

Salif Diao was born in Kédougou, Senegal.

What nationality is Salif Diao?

Wikidata lists Salif Diao as a citizen of France and Senegal.