France international midfielder Lassana Diarra has confirmed that his cousin was one of the victims of Friday’s terrorist attacks in Paris.
Tragically, on the same night that the Marseille player represented his country against Germany in the Stade de France, his close cousin, Asta Diakite, lost her life in the attacks on the French capital.
A rough translation of the player’s statement reads as follows:
Good evening,
Following the dramatic events that occurred yesterday in Paris and Saint Denis, it is with a heavy heart that I awake today.
As you may have read, I have been personally affected by these attacks. My cousin Asta Diakite was among the victims of one of the shootings that took place yesterday, as were hundreds of other innocent French people.
She was like an older sister and support to me. In this climate of terror, it is important for all of us, who represent our country and its diversity, to speak out and remain united against a horror that has no colour, no religion.
Defending all love, respect and peace. Thank you all for your condolences and messages, take care of you and yours, and may our victims rest in peace.
#PrayForPeace #FranceUnity
See you soon, Lass.
https://twitter.com/Lass_Officiel/status/665581410405715968
Our thoughts are with Lassana Diarra and the family of Asta Diakite at this incredibly difficult time, as they are with all those affected by the tragic events in Paris.
