Habib Diarra announced his return to English football in emphatic fashion by scoring twice as Sunderland claimed a 3-0 victory over Burnley, prompting warm praise from head coach Régis Le Bris following the midfielder’s Africa Cup of Nations success with Senegal.
The 21-year-old, who lifted the AFCON trophy earlier this month, produced his most influential performance since joining Sunderland last summer from Strasbourg.
Making his first league start since returning from international duty, Diarra found the net twice to secure his first and second league goals for the club and help Sunderland to a commanding win.
Diarra’s early months in England had been disrupted by circumstances beyond his control. A groin injury slowed his adaptation after his arrival, before he left midway through the season to represent Senegal at the Africa Cup of Nations.
His absence meant he struggled to establish rhythm in a competitive Premier League environment, but his return has provided Sunderland with renewed energy in midfield.
Speaking after the match, Le Bris revealed the club’s confidence in the player had never wavered. “We talked a lot this week about a fresh start.
We supported him during his injury, then during the AFCON, and we were convinced that upon his return, he would have all the qualities to succeed,” he said.
The Sunderland manager also highlighted the attributes Diarra brings to his side, underlining the importance of his performance. “He’s a very competitive player.
He wants to win, press, and score. He brings us that energy, which is very important in this league,” Le Bris added, pointing to the midfielder’s intensity and drive as key factors in the victory.
Signed as Sunderland’s first acquisition of the summer transfer window, Diarra arrived with high expectations. However, his late integration into the squad meant patience was required.
Le Bris acknowledged that context when reflecting on the player’s journey so far. “He was one of our first signings. He set the tone when we decided to move forward with him. He arrived late in the squad, but now I hope he will continue to perform like this,” the coach said.
For Sunderland, Diarra’s display against Burnley may mark a turning point. With his confidence boosted by continental success and his first goals in the league now secured, the Senegalese midfielder has an opportunity to build momentum and fulfil the promise that convinced the club to invest in him.
