Amad Diallo has admitted it feels “impossible” to be compared with Ivory Coast legends Didier Drogba and Yaya Touré, insisting his focus remains on carving out his own legacy with the Elephants.

The Manchester United winger may have only 15 international appearances since making his senior debut in March 2021, but at just 23, he has already emerged as one of Ivory Coast’s on-field leaders at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations.

Amad has been instrumental in his country’s run to the quarter-finals, contributing directly to four goals in four matches—scoring three times and providing one assist. Ahead of the last eight, only Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman had more goal involvements, while no player at the tournament has been involved in more shots than Amad, with 24 contributions comprising 15 attempts and nine chances created.

His eye-catching performances have inevitably drawn comparisons with national icons Drogba, Ivory Coast’s all-time leading scorer, and midfield powerhouse Yaya Touré, who played a pivotal role in the country’s 2015 AFCON triumph.

“I feel really good, relaxed and free on the pitch,” Amad told Stats Perform.“I’m in a good place physically and mentally, and I try to give the maximum every time I play.

“I’m in a good place physically and mentally, and I try to give the maximum every time I play.

“I’m here to be one of the offensive leaders. But comparisons with legends like Didier Drogba or Yaya Touré are impossible. They wrote their own history. They are legends of African and European football.

“I’m trying to follow my own path, stay humble, and help my country win a fourth star.”

This is Amad’s first AFCON appearance, having missed Ivory Coast’s title win two years ago due to injury. With three goals already at the 2025 tournament, only Laurent Pokou and Joël Tiéhi have scored more goals for the Elephants in a single AFCON edition.

Beyond his personal form, Amad is embracing his growing responsibility within the squad, drawing on experience gained at both international level and at Manchester United.

“It’s true I’m 23, but I’ve gained a lot of experience,” he said. “Today, I’m one of the leaders of this team, and it gives me great pleasure to carry that responsibility.

“I try to advise the younger players and share what I’ve learned at Manchester United. I always tell them to stay humble, because that’s what separates a good player from a great one.”

Ivory Coast face Egypt in the quarter-finals on Saturday as they look to defend their AFCON crown and become the first team to retain the title since Egypt’s historic three-peat between 2006 and 2010.

Alongside team success, Amad has clear personal ambitions.

“Winning the African Ballon d’Or is one of my life goals,” he added.
“I will do everything possible to achieve it one day.”