Senegal fans have received encouraging news as Habib Diarra and Ismail Jakobs edge closer to full fitness ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.
Both players, previously listed among the doubtful candidates due to injury, now appear ready to join the Lions for the continental tournament, with the official squad announcement expected on December 11.
Habib Diarra, sidelined since September with a groin injury that required surgery, has made significant progress in his rehabilitation.
The Sunderland midfielder is reportedly fit to participate in upcoming Premier League fixtures, including the club’s high-profile derby against Newcastle.
However, Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris has indicated that Diarra’s return to competitive action may still require careful management.
Despite this caution, Diarra retains a strong chance of joining Senegal’s squad when the international window opens on December 15.
Similarly, Ismail Jakobs has overcome his injury sustained in the last Champions League match and is poised to rejoin his Istanbul club for the upcoming European trip to Monaco.
Reports from A Spor confirm that Jakobs is included in the squad selected for the match, signaling his recovery and readiness for international duty.
The final decision will depend not only on their physical condition but also on coach Pape Thiaw’s tactical plans for the Lions.
Both players’ inclusion could strengthen Senegal’s squad as the team aims to make a strong showing in Morocco.
Their recovery offers a timely boost, ensuring that the Lions could enter the tournament with greater depth and experience across midfield and defense.
As the December 11 squad announcement approaches, Senegalese supporters can take heart in the progress of Diarra and Jakobs, whose returns from injury may prove pivotal for the team’s AFCON ambitions.
