Mahamadou Diaby

Mahamadou Diaby is an experienced French flanker whose career has been built on durability and a relentless presence around the breakdown. Born on 15 August 1990 in Bagnolet, he developed through Stade Français and Racing Métro before establishing himself in the Top 14, with senior spells at Oyonnax and Grenoble preceding a long and influential stay at Union Bordeaux-Bègles. Across roughly eight seasons in the south-west he made close to 180 appearances and served as a club vice-captain, valued as much for his leadership as for his physical contribution. Comfortable across both sides of the back row, Diaby brings aggressive defensive work, strength at the contact area and a turnover threat that has remained a feature of his game into the veteran stage of his career. He joined USA Perpignan as front-line cover, adding hard-earned Top 14 know-how to the USAP pack during a demanding campaign in which the club retained its place in the top flight. While he was named in a French Barbarians invitational selection in 2017, he has not been capped by the senior France national team. A consummate professional, Diaby continues to offer experience and physical edge to a younger forward unit.