With players such as Zinedine Zidane and Paul Pogba having had the chance to represent African countries but opting to play for European nations, another starlet has now chosen Europe over Africa.

Click through the gallery above to see some other players who have chosen to play for European nations over African countries.

Olympique Lyon midfielder Pape Cheikh Diop, who was born in Dakar, Senegal, has pledged his international allegiance to Spain, as reported by the BBC.

He has revealed that the Senegalese Football Federation tried to persuade him to play for the Lions of Teranga, but added that he wants to play for Spain, having won the UEFA U19 European Championship with the European nation in 2015.

"I have been called by Senegal several times, but I remain committed to Spain," Diop told Marca.

"Of course, I can never forget my origin, I am Senegalese, but I also feel Spanish.

"Spain has given me everything and I want to give back in return. I am very happy with the decision I've made."

Diop, who joined Lyon at the beginning of the 2017/18 campaign, moved to Spain when he was 14 years old and represented the 2010 FIFA World Cup winners at U18, U19 and U21 levels.

Read: FIFA Announce 2018 World Team Of The Year, Salah Snubbed

Despite his public plea to play for Spain, the 21-year-old can still switch allegiances back to Senegal until he makes a senior appearance for La Furia Roja.

Do you think African nations should try harder to make their talents snub European teams? Have your say in the comments section below.