Premier League fans blown away by ‘electric’ Sunderland star who was ‘unreal’ vs West Ham
Habib Diarra has looked brilliant during preseason since his arrival from French side Strasbourg.
Sunderland supporters had wondered how the Senegalese internationals’ fine form would carry over into a tough Premier League environment.
However, the Mackems and Diarra showed plenty of promise as Sunderland beat West Ham 3-0 in their first Premier League fixture in eight years.
Eliezer Mayenda opened the scoring in the second half, with Dan Ballard and Wilson Isidor also adding to their lead, while Diarra had an impact at both ends of the pitch.
Diarra shows his quality vs West Ham
Regis Le Bris is still eager to add to his Sunderland squad after the victory over the Hammers, with PSG’s Nordi Mukiele expected to join.
The Mackems have already introduced Omar Alderete to their squad this week as they continue to strengthen their backline.
One position Le Bris doesn’t need to strengthen is his midfield, as evidenced by the Black Cats’ dominance against West Ham.
Granit Xhaka showed his experience in the heavy victory, and Noah Sadiki was dominant in the middle of the park.
It was Diarra who, in particular, caught the eye, as he adapted to life in England just fine against the Hammers.
The 21-year-old was ruthless as he restricted movement for West Ham’s midfield and made an impact defensively and going forward.
His ability to create quick transitions caused a Leeds supporter to look back on missing out on Diarra with regret.
The supporter wrote on X: “That ball carrying Habib Diarra, wow, that 30m was worth it and no one can change my mind on that.”
A West Ham supporter also wrote: “Sunderland have been in the Premier League five minutes and have: Diarra, Xhaka, Sadiki. Twice as good, and it showed today.”
- Read more: Winners and losers from Sunderland’s win vs West Ham include Eliezer Mayenda and Jenson Seelt
Sunderland’s midfield to outclass Burnley
The Mackems have already shown their dominance against Premier League regulars West Ham, and supporters can expect no different against Burnley.
| Club | Transfer spend |
| Burnley | £107m |
| Sunderland | £129m |
Sunderland’s rivals haven’t made much of a dent in the transfer window like the Black Cats have, and the Clarets have lost Josh Brownhill in midfield.
Le Bris has the ideal opportunity to build on their solid start against West Ham, with a win against Burnley in their second Premier League fixture.
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