Fresh reporting in France has offered a surprising twist in the fitness saga surrounding Habib Diarra, with claims the midfielder has been taking part in high-intensity training for the past fortnight. The update contrasts with Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris’ recent comments suggesting Sunday’s Wear-Tyne derby against Newcastle United was likely to come too soon for the 21-year-old.
Diarra underwent groin surgery earlier in the campaign and had been expected to return towards the end of December. Instead, Dsports report that his physical progress has accelerated noticeably, and that he could even be considered for a squad role this weekend depending on his response in the next 48 hours.
Their report noted: “Habib Diarra has resumed high-intensity training for the past two weeks. This gradual return to fitness should allow him to rejoin the Sunderland squad as early as this weekend.” A source close to the player added that his long-term target — representing Senegal at AFCON — has been a major motivation behind his rapid recovery: “Everything is going well for him… his goal is to play in the next AFCON with Senegal.”
While the update is encouraging, Sunderland’s coaching staff remain careful not to rush the midfielder back.
Le Bris remains cautious despite positive signs
Speaking after Sunderland’s 3–0 defeat to Manchester City, Le Bris struck a far more conservative tone, insisting that despite Diarra’s internal progress, the derby is likely to come too early.
“For Rei, it could be okay, but for Habib, it would be too short, I think.” — Régis Le Bris
The midfielder was always facing a challenging turnaround following his operation, and while his recovery is ahead of schedule, the risk of recurrence remains the club’s primary concern. With AFCON on the horizon, any setback now could derail both Sunderland’s plans and Diarra’s international ambitions.
Reinildo boost, Xhaka and Sadiki protected
There was brighter news regarding Reinildo, who missed the trip to Manchester with a minor groin issue but is expected to be available for the derby.
Le Bris also made precautionary changes at the Etihad, withdrawing Granit Xhaka and Noah Sadiki after City’s third goal to ensure neither picked up a suspension before Sunday’s crucial fixture.
“We tried to stay in the game, to provoke something… It didn’t work, but we tried.”
Both midfielders will therefore be available, offering Sunderland additional solidity and experience in a match where control will be essential.
Sunderland face suspension blow and bench reshuffle
However, the Black Cats will be without Luke O’Nien, whose yellow card for a challenge on Matheus Nunes was upgraded to a straight red via VAR. He will miss three matches, ruling him out of the derby and placing extra pressure on Sunderland’s defensive options.
There are potential reinforcements, though. Arthur Masuaku could return to the matchday squad despite uncertainty over his long-term future. Le Bris made it clear that the full-back remains part of the group for now:
“Maybe, we’ll see [on January departure]. It’s just a question of balance on the bench… Arthur is still with us.”
Meanwhile, Dennis Cirkin has completed another 90 minutes for the U21s, a strong indicator that he may soon return to senior contention after a lengthy absence.
Sunderland must balance caution with opportunity
In our view, the Diarra situation encapsulates the delicate balance Sunderland must strike. The derby represents one of the most emotionally charged fixtures of the season, but bringing a key midfielder back prematurely after surgery would be reckless. His long-term importance — and the impending AFCON — make controlled reintegration essential.
Yet the noise around his accelerated recovery cannot be dismissed. Sunderland have lacked midfield dynamism in recent weeks, and Diarra’s ability to cover ground, break lines and press aggressively could transform the side’s rhythm. It’s understandable why supporters are excited, but this is a moment where patience may be wiser than impulse.
At the same time, the return of Reinildo and the protection of Xhaka and Sadiki offers Sunderland a far more stable platform than the injury list suggested a fortnight ago. The main unknown is how they compensate for O’Nien’s suspension, with structure and discipline crucial against a Newcastle side capable of exploiting disorganisation.
Why Diarra’s AFCON ambition matters
Diarra’s personal target of making Senegal’s AFCON squad adds another layer to his recovery timeline. Players often accelerate rehabilitation when major international tournaments approach, but medical teams must balance motivation with safety. Sunderland’s challenge is to support his ambition without allowing it to dictate selection.
If managed correctly, the midfielder could return sharper and hungrier — but only if the club avoids the temptation to rush him back for a single domestic fixture.
Key Insights
- French reports claim Habib Diarra has completed two weeks of high-intensity training.
- Le Bris still believes the derby may come too early despite positive progress.
- Reinildo expected to return; Xhaka and Sadiki available after precautionary withdrawals.
- O’Nien suspended for three matches following a VAR-reviewed red card.
- Masuaku and Cirkin could bolster squad depth ahead of derby weekend.
What’s Next?
Sunderland continue preparations for Sunday’s Wear-Tyne derby, with late fitness assessments likely to determine Diarra’s availability. Reinildo’s expected return offers a timely boost, while decisions around Masuaku and Cirkin could shape the final matchday squad.
👉 Sunderland fans — would you risk Diarra for the derby, or save him for the long-term run and AFCON?
1 Comment (last comment by JamesLove)
First read message
By JamesLove 10 Dec 2025 08:35
He won’t start anyways - don’t think Le Bris will take any risk
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