Senegal forward Cheikh Tidiane Sabaly ends strike and resumes training with Metz

Cheikh Tidiane Sabaly has returned to collective training with FC Metz after ending a brief strike that had kept him away from the squad.

The Senegal international, who has four caps and one goal for his country, rejoined his teammates on Tuesday afternoon ahead of Metz’s Ligue 1 home fixture against Paris FC on Sunday.

Dispute over potential transfer

The 26-year-old striker had distanced himself from group sessions in recent days, choosing instead to train alone in the gym.

The move was widely viewed as an attempt to pressure Metz into sanctioning a transfer to English Championship side Middlesbrough.

His stance meant he did not feature in last weekend’s 3-0 defeat to Lyon. Officially, the absence was attributed to a minor knee complaint, but sources within the club suggested that Metz had asked him to stay home due to the ongoing situation.

Club hierarchy takes a firm line

The episode drew a strong response from sporting director Frédéric Arpinon, who was quick to remind both player and public that the club controls his future.

“It is not the player who is in charge,” Arpinon said after the Lyon match, stressing that Sabaly would not be released until Metz received satisfactory terms.

Sabaly remains under contract with the Grenats until 2026 and carries an estimated market value of €5 million.

Metz, who fought hard to retain their Ligue 1 status, are reluctant to part with one of their most effective attacking options unless the conditions align with the club’s sporting and financial objectives.

Impressive record draws interest

Sabaly’s determination to secure a move reflects his rising profile in French football. Last season, he scored 12 goals in Ligue 2, playing a pivotal role in Metz’s attacking set-up and establishing himself as a reliable forward capable of making the difference in crucial matches.

That form has not gone unnoticed. His name has consistently featured in transfer discussions this summer, with Middlesbrough reportedly keen to bring him to the Championship as they seek to strengthen their promotion bid.

The English club’s interest highlights his appeal beyond French football, although Metz’s firm stance has so far stalled any deal.

Back in the fold—for now

Despite the tensions, Sabaly’s return to training suggests a temporary resolution, at least until the transfer window closes.

With Paris FC visiting Stade Saint-Symphorien this weekend, Metz will be eager to reintegrate one of their most potent attacking threats as they look to secure their first win of the season.

Whether Sabaly remains focused on Metz’s campaign or continues to push for a move abroad will be closely watched in the coming weeks.

The forward’s ability to put the dispute behind him and channel his energy on the pitch could prove vital for the club, particularly as they navigate the challenges of Ligue 1.

A test of resolve

For Metz, the situation underscores the delicate balance between holding onto key players and managing their ambitions.

For Sabaly, it is a pivotal moment: staying professional and delivering performances could either cement his value in France or enhance his prospects of securing a move in the future.

As things stand, the striker is back in the squad, training alongside his teammates, and preparing for Paris FC.

Whether his long-term future lies in Lorraine or elsewhere remains uncertain, but for now, Metz will count on him to play his part in the season ahead.