Habib Diarra says he has no regrets over joining Sunderland over a Champions League club.
The midfielder has made it to the Senegal squad for AFCON. Ahead of the upcoming tournament, D Sports spoke to the Sunderland player.
The 21-year-old spent his entire playing career in France before the summer. He came up through the ranks of RC Strasbourg’s academy, and they sold him to the Black Cats in July.
Prior to completing a move to Sunderland, the outlet claims AC Milan and Atlético Madrid had shown interest in him.
They asked Diarra what motivated him to pick Régis Le Bris’ side over the European giants. When responding to that, the player said some of his compatriots found it difficult to accept his decision.
“It was a very well-considered decision. I spoke with the sporting director and the coach, and I quickly told them I was going to come. They presented me with a clear and interesting project, and I was very receptive,” he said.
“From the start, they showed me they really wanted me. For a player, feeling important at a club is essential. I know that this choice wasn’t understood by everyone, especially some Senegalese players, and I understand them. But I never rush things. To reach the next level, you have to think things through carefully. I don’t take that lightly.”
Joining Sunderland “a decision of the heart”
Milan are second in the Serie A table, a point behind leaders Inter Milan. A move to Italy would have seen him compete for the title. Atlético would have offered him European football.
D Sports pressed the midfielder whether he regrets joining Sunderland over a Champions League side.
“No, not at all. When I make a decision, it’s because I’ve thought it through carefully,” Diarra explained.
“I’m a very organised person. If we share the same values, I give it my all. I feel fantastic at Sunderland. It was a decision of the heart, and in terms of results, everything is working. We couldn’t have hoped for more.”
