Habib Diarra opens up on leadership, elite inspirations and his long-term Champions League ambitions
Habib Diarra has returned to Wearside fully focused on making an impact during the closing months of the season, determined to play a leading role for Sunderland after a disrupted start to his Premier League career.
The 22-year-old midfielder arrived at the Stadium of Light in a £30million move from Strasbourg, but an injury suffered just weeks into his time on Wearside halted his momentum. Now back fit, Diarra is expected to shoulder increased responsibility in midfield, particularly with Granit Xhaka set for a spell on the sidelines.
Sunderland’s need for leadership in the centre of the pitch has been heightened by Xhaka’s absence, and Diarra’s background suggests he is well equipped for that responsibility. The Senegal international was handed the captain’s armband at Strasbourg at a young age under Liam Rosenior, an experience he believes has shaped his mentality.
"When I was young, I was used to being a captain," says Diarra. "Being young and professional has nothing to do with it. I was born that way. It's natural for me. I would say that I am someone who likes to win. All the players keep that in mind. I am someone who likes to help people.
"When I see people who are going through a difficult time, I will help them. I will be there to support them. At Sunderland, we don't necessarily use the term captain. We use the word leader. I learn every day from Granit. I see how he does it. There are times when I will handle things differently. I take him as an example."
While Xhaka has become a key reference point at Sunderland, Diarra also draws inspiration from some of the Premier League’s most accomplished midfielders, naming Paul Pogba and N'Golo Kanté as players he closely studies. Despite his young age, Diarra already boasts an impressive résumé, having captained at club level, won the Africa Cup of Nations and secured a high-profile move to the Premier League. However, he insists his ambitions stretch far beyond what he has already achieved.
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"Of course, at 22, it's good to have all that," says Diarra. "But it's just the beginning. I am someone who is hungry. I always want to improve. I want to be among the best midfielders in the world. I take Paul Pogba, N'Golo Kanté as an example. I am always inspired by players like them. They're in the same ballpark as me. In the coming years, I want to make a name for myself in the Premier League. I want to be part of the top players. I want to win the Champions League. It's a goal for everyone. I also want to win the World Cup. That's the dream."
With Sunderland entering a decisive period of the campaign, Diarra’s leadership qualities and long-term ambition could yet prove pivotal as the Black Cats look to finish the season strongly.
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