French international soccer player Lassana Diarra, who played in his nation’s match against Germany that was at the centre of the Paris attacks, has confirmed that his cousin was one of the victims.
Diarra played for Chelsea, Arsenal and Portmouth in the English Premier League.
Diarra wrote: “Following the dramatic events that took place in Paris and Saint Denis yesterday, it’s with a heavy heart that I’m saying this todayDiarra, who played in France’s game against at the Stade de France where one of the attacks took place, took to Twitter to confirm that his cousin had tragically been killed.
“As you will have perhaps read, I have been personally affected by these atrocities. My cousin, Asta Diakite, was among the victims in one of the shootings that took place yesterday, like hundreds of other innocent French people. She was to me a rock,a support, a big sister.
“In this climate of terror, it is important for us all, who are representatives of our country and our diversity, to speak out and stay united in the face of a terror that has nothing to do with colour or religion.
“Let’s protect together love, respect and peace. Thank you all for your updates and messages, take care of yourselves and those close to you, and those victims resting in peace.”
