Diafra Sakho Matches Premier League Record — and Continues to Set Defenses Alight
What a rise for Diafra Sakho. Just two years ago, he was playing in France’s National League. Now, he’s matching records in the Premier League. By scoring his sixth goal in his first six appearances, the West Ham striker equaled the feat of Mick Quinn, the former Coventry City star from the early 90s — a rare achievement in English football.
With 7 goals in 9 league matches ahead of West Ham’s 14th matchday clash against West Bromwich Albion, Sakho is proving to be one of the signings of the season. A relatively unknown name when he arrived from FC Metz, the 25-year-old Senegalese from Guédiawaye has adapted incredibly fast to the English game.
His former youth coach at Metz, José Pinot, isn’t surprised:
“Since his arrival from Senegal in 2007, he’s always scored goals — 15 to 20 per season in the U19 and CFA teams. Put him in any club, any league, and he’ll score. He adapts quickly.”
Off the pitch, Sakho’s adaptation is just as eventful. Nicknamed “Fireman” after nearly starting a fire in his apartment while trying to make tea and showering at the same time, he’s now focused on burning down defenses rather than kitchens.
His coach, Sam Allardyce, praised not just his knack for scoring, but his attitude:
“I thought he’d need 10–15 matches to adapt to the Premier League. But he’s got this gift — he’s always in the right place at the right time.”
With his explosive form, quirky personality, and unshakeable confidence, Diafra Sakho is not just scoring goals — he’s becoming a fan favorite in East London.
