Habib Diallo brings international experience to Le Mans after FC Metz exit

Senegalese-French striker Habib Diallo has joined Le Mans FC from FC Metz, signing a contract that runs until 30 June 2029.

The 31-year-old centre-forward makes the switch after one season back at Metz, having returned to the club as a free agent from Saudi Arabian side Al-Shabab on 31 August 2025. His move to Le Mans was completed on 1 September 2026.

Diallo has made two Ligue 2 appearances this season, playing 56 minutes in total without scoring or providing an assist. He now joins a Le Mans side competing in Ligue 1, adding experience to their attacking options.

The forward previously spent the early part of his senior career with Metz after joining the club’s reserve side from Senegalese academy Generation Foot in 2013. He moved into Metz’s first team in 2015 and helped the club win the French second tier title during the 2018-19 season.

Diallo left Metz for Strasbourg in October 2020 in a €10m transfer, spending three seasons with the Alsace club before moving to Al-Shabab for €18m in August 2023. He also had loan spells with Brest and Saudi Arabian club Damac during his career.

His international record includes winning the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal in 2022. Born in Thies, Diallo stands 1.86m tall and is a right-footed centre-forward.

The move gives Le Mans a senior attacking option with experience in France, Saudi Arabia and international football. Diallo’s previous spell at Metz also means he returns to the French game after a season in which he made limited appearances before switching clubs.

Diallo is now contracted to Le Mans until the end of June 2029.