Three-year gamble: Kadidiatou Diani joins London City Lionesses

A three-year contract has been secured by London City Lionesses for French forward Kadidiatou Diani, with an undisclosed fee paid to OL Lyonnes, the club announced in a press release from The Pride this morning. The deal marks a significant investment for the independent side.

The 31-year-old attacker arrives as the sixth summer signing, bringing a wealth of experience to a squad eager to strengthen its attacking options. Her addition underscores the club’s intent to build a more competitive roster.

The Lionesses’ sixth summer acquisition reflects their ambition to compete at the highest level of the WSL. The move highlights the club’s willingness to invest in top talent, a rarity in women’s football.

Diani arrives after a distinguished career in French football, having played for Paris FC, Paris Saint-Germain and OL Lyonnes. She has collected every domestic honour available in the French game, demonstrating her pedigree at club level.

On the international stage, the French forward has earned 126 caps for France and scored 26 goals, adding a wealth of pedigree to the Lionesses’ attacking options. Her record underscores her status as a seasoned international.

Speaking after the signing, Diani said, “I’m really happy to have signed here. It is an opportunity for me to discover a new country, a new city, a new team, and I can’t wait to start this next chapter.” She emphasized the chance to experience a new environment while bolstering the Lionesses’ firepower.

The transfer, reported to WSL Full-Time, underscores the independent club’s willingness to invest in top talent, a rarity in women’s football. It signals a broader shift as clubs seek to attract established internationals to raise the league’s profile.