Habib Diallo (born 2 July 1997) is a Senegalese professional footballer who plays as a forward for French Ligue 1 club RC Strasbourg and the Senegal national team. He is notable for his goal‑scoring record in French domestic competitions and for representing Senegal at senior international level.
Early life and education
Diallo was born in Paris, France, to Senegalese parents. He began playing football at a young age and joined the youth academy of FC Metz, where he progressed through the club’s development system.
Club career
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FC Metz (2015–2021)
Diallo made his professional debut for Metz in Ligue 2 on 4 November 2015. Over six seasons he amassed more than 100 league appearances and contributed a double‑digit goal tally, helping the club achieve promotion to Ligue 1 in the 2018–19 season. -
Loan to FC Sochaux-Montbéliard (2018–2019)
During the 2018–19 campaign, Diallo spent a season on loan at fellow Ligue 2 side Sochaux, where he scored 12 league goals and demonstrated versatility across the forward line. -
RC Strasbourg (2023–present)
In July 2023, Diallo transferred to Strasbourg on a permanent deal reported to be worth approximately €5 million. He scored his first Ligue 1 goal for the club on 12 August 2023, and has since been a regular starter, contributing both goals and assists.
International career
Diallo received his first call‑up to the Senegal national team in November 2022 and earned his debut in a friendly against Mexico on 12 November 2022. He was included in Senegal’s squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, appearing in multiple matches and scoring one tournament goal.
Playing style
Primarily deployed as a central striker, Diallo is recognized for his physical strength, aerial ability, and clinical finishing. Coaches have also noted his work rate and capacity to press defenders, allowing him to operate effectively in high‑intensity tactical setups.
Personal life
Diallo holds dual French‑Senegalese nationality. He has spoken publicly about his commitment to representing Senegal at the international level and supports charitable initiatives aimed at youth development in both France and Senegal.
Career statistics
Club (selected seasons)
- FC Metz (2015–2021): 112 appearances, 31 goals
- Sochaux (loan, 2018–2019): 32 appearances, 12 goals
- Strasbourg (2023–present, as of 30 May 2024): 28 appearances, 9 goals
International (senior team, as of 30 May 2024)
- Caps: 8
- Goals: 2
Honours
- Ligue 2 Champion: 2018–19 (FC Metz)
References
- Fédération Française de Football (FFF) player profile
- Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) match reports
- Official club announcements from FC Metz, FC Sochaux‑Montbéliard, and RC Strasbourg
Note: All data presented are derived from publicly available, verifiable sources as of May 2024.