World Cup 2026 qualifiers: Who will replace Habib Diarra in the Senegal squad?

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World Cup 2026 qualifiers: Who will replace Habib Diarra in the Senegal squad?

Habib Diarra will be missed by Senegal

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Habib Diarra/@L'Alsace

Senegal will have to do without their valiant midfielder during the upcoming international break, scheduled for October.

Sidelined with a groin injury, the Sunderland player has just undergone surgery. His anticipated return to competition is set for December, just days before the kickoff of the Africa Cup of Nations.

Who will step in for Habib Diarra?​

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw shouldn't face too many difficulties finding a worthy replacement for Habib Diarra. He has several options available for the defensive midfield role.

After scoring a decisive goal in the last round of World Cup qualifiers, Tottenham's Pape Matar Sarr stands out as the frontrunner to take Diarra's place. Two other strong candidates are Pathé Ciss and Lamine Camara.

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In any case, the 2021 AFCON champions boast a golden generation more than capable of going deep should they qualify for the next World Cup.

As a reminder, the Indomitable Lions need just 6 more points to secure their ticket to the next World Cup, set to take place in North America in 2026.

: Sunderland defender Habib Diarra has undergone surgery on a groin injury and will be out of action until December.

Diarra will miss Senegal's last World Cup qualifier matches against South Sudan and Mauritania next month.️ pic.twitter.com/ZgIzbJYnu8

— Duncan (@duncangutse) September 23, 2025

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