Senegal: Habib Diarra’s AFCON hopes revived as Sunderland confirm midfielder nears return

Senegal midfielder Habib Diarra is edging closer to full fitness after a lengthy spell on the sidelines, though Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris has confirmed the 20-year-old will not feature in next weekend’s derby against Newcastle United.

Diarra has been out of action for three months following groin surgery in September, a setback that halted his early progress with Sunderland and raised concerns about his availability for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

While his recovery has accelerated in recent weeks, Le Bris insists the club will not rush his return.

Speaking ahead of Sunderland’s preparations for the derby, Le Bris offered a cautious assessment of the midfielder’s condition.

For Habib, it’s too early for this weekend. He’s working hard, but this kind of injury needs time. We have to be careful, he said, explaining that Diarra’s workload is still being carefully managed to avoid any recurrence.

The Senegal international, who joined Sunderland after rising through the ranks at Strasbourg, has been undergoing an intensive rehabilitation programme.

Despite his absence since early autumn, he has remained focused on returning fully fit ahead of a crucial period for both club and country.

Diarra’s ambitions include representing Senegal at the Africa Cup of Nations, and while optimism is growing, Le Bris stressed that there is still progress to be made before any firm decision is taken.

He’s getting better every day, but we can’t put him into a competitive rhythm immediately. There’s a plan in place, and we’ll follow it step by step, the Sunderland manager explained.

The Black Cats have felt Diarra’s absence in midfield, particularly during key league fixtures where his athletic drive and ball-carrying ability were noticeably missing.

However, Le Bris emphasised that the priority remains the player’s long-term health rather than short-term necessity.

We want Habib back, but we want him back properly. We won’t compromise his future.

Diarra himself is said to be encouraged by his progress, with hopes that he will rejoin full team training in the coming weeks.

His involvement in AFCON will depend on how he responds to the next phase of his recovery, and both Sunderland and Senegal are approaching the situation with caution.

With the continental tournament approaching and competition within the Senegal squad intensifying, Diarra’s return to fitness could not come soon enough — but for now, Sunderland’s medical team remains committed to ensuring the young midfielder completes a full, safe recovery before stepping back onto the pitch.