Does Abou Diaby still have a shot at a professional career?

Depending on your perspective, Abou Diaby’s footballing career is playing out like a farce, or a Greek tragedy.

The gangly French midfielder just can’t seem to catch a break.

I think it’s fair to say that ex-Sunderland midfielder (who now plays for a non-League side), Dan Smith has changed Abou Diaby’s life.

It was his tackle back in May 2006 that broke and dislocated Diaby’s right ankle and set of a chain of injuries, with ramifications that continue to be felt until this day.

The most recent news regarding Abou Diaby is that he’s expected to be out of the game for even longer than expected. Arsene Wenger told the Press what the French midfielder’s current situation is:

“He had a little key hole surgery again, on the the knee because his knee blew up every time he did something so it is now six months after the cruciate. He could not even jog yet so with new surgery it is a set back for him so competitive football cannot be played before March.” (Source: The Mirror)

Crikey.

Things have gone from bad to worse for Abou Diaby. At 27-years-old, his resolve is now being seriously tested. Should there be further recurrences of his injury, his professional career could be under serious threat.

Interestingly enough, Wenger also noted: “He has one and a half years to go on his contract.” This suggests that there will be opportunities for Diaby in the future.

But I can’t help but feel that they’ve stood by their man for long enough. The Gunners pay Diaby a decent wage and have provided him with the medical experts and equipment he needs to recover.

But Diaby has been unable to give anything back to Arsenal in return. Whilst this isn’t exactly his fault, surely he must understand that there’s only so long that the club can continue to support him?

I can’t help but wish Diaby the very best. I hope he recovers and plays regular professional football at the top level again. I hope he fulfills his potential.

But I can’t see it happening. Neither can I see him getting ahead of the likes of Jack Wilshere, Santi Cazorla and Mesut Ozil in the pecking order. It’s time for him to move on.

Thanks Dan Smith!

What’s your take? Is it time to give up on Abou Diaby? Does he still have a career at the Emirates?

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