Habib Diarra tells Sky to give his motm award to his teammate despite his performance

Habib Diarra tells Sky to give his motm award to his teammate despite his performance

In a heartwarming display of team spirit following Sunderland’s commanding 3-0 victory over Burnley at the Stadium of Light, midfielder Habib Diarra made headlines for his humility off the pitch. The Senegal international, who starred in the match with a goal and an assist, was named Man of the Match by Sky Sports after the Premier League encounter.

Diarra, a £30 million summer signing from Strasbourg who had recently returned from winning the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal, delivered a dominant performance. He opened the scoring in the ninth minute—though initially credited as an own goal via deflection—before netting his first official Premier League goal for the club in the 32nd minute with a clinical finish. His energy, direct running, and midfield control helped Sunderland maintain their impressive unbeaten home record, now stretching to 12 league games

.However, in the post-match interview with Sky Sports, Diarra graciously insisted the award should go to his teammate Brian Brobbey instead. The powerful Dutch striker, a deadline-day arrival from Ajax, terrorized Burnley’s defense throughout. Brobbey provided the clever flick-on that led to the opening goal, held up play brilliantly, and created constant threats with his physicality and link-up ability—though he was unlucky not to score himself.

“I did my part, but Brian was incredible tonight,” Diarra reportedly told Sky. “He bullied their backline, set up chances, and made everything easier for us. The MOTM should be his—he deserves it more.” The gesture highlighted the unity within Régis Le Bris’ squad as Sunderland climbed to eighth in the table. Fans and pundits praised Diarra’s selflessness, with many calling it a perfect example of true sportsmanship. Brobbey, though not officially awarded the honor, received widespread recognition for his tireless display.

In an era often criticized for individual egos, Diarra’s act reminded everyone that great teams thrive on collective appreciation. As Sunderland push for European contention, moments like this could prove as valuable as any goal or assist.