AFCON 2025: Habib Diarra nears full return as rehabilitation gains momentum

Habib Diarra finally steps closer to the end of his lengthy recovery, bringing relief to both Sunderland and the player himself after months on the sidelines.

The 20-year-old midfielder has battled a groin injury since September, an issue that required surgery before he began a demanding rehabilitation programme.

He worked intensively for three months to regain his physical condition and now moves steadily toward competitive readiness.

Head coach Régis Le Bris confirmed Diarra’s progress, according to Le Quotidien.

He follows the player’s recovery closely and highlights the steady improvement that marks each training session.

The club continues to increase Diarra’s workload, but they do so with strict monitoring and clear caution.

Diarra will not join Sunderland for the derby against Newcastle, but he keeps building rhythm and strength day by day.

Le Quotidien also reports that he could feature again before the start of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which begins on 21 December in Morocco.

This possibility encourages both the player and the national team, as he remains an important option when fully fit.

Le Bris insists on patience. He manages Diarra’s schedule carefully and adjusts the intensity of each session to avoid any new setback.

He wants the midfielder to feel confident in every phase of his return, and Diarra responds well to the plan.

The young midfielder speaks positively about his progress and draws confidence from each stage of the rehabilitation.

He continues to work at a steady pace and keeps his focus on a complete return rather than rushing the final step.

This latest development offers Sunderland and Diarra renewed optimism. After months of frustration, the midfielder now sees a clear path back to the pitch as AFCON 2025 approaches.