View source for Alou Diarra

{{short description|French footballer (born 1981)}}
{{good article}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2020}}
{{Infobox football biography
| name = Alou Diarra
| image = AlouDiarra.JPG
| caption = Diarra with [[France national football team|France]] at the [[UEFA Euro 2012]]
| full_name = Alou Diarra<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.fifadata.com/document/fwc/2010/PDF_BackUp_2010_06_13/FWC_2010_SquadLists.pdf |title=FIFA World Cup South Africa 2010: List of Players: France |publisher=FIFA |page=10 |date=12 June 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191018131759/https://www.fifadata.com/document/fwc/2010/PDF_BackUp_2010_06_13/FWC_2010_SquadLists.pdf |archive-date=18 October 2019}}</ref>
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1981|7|15|df=y}}<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.premierleague.com/players/2283/Alou-Diarra/overview |title=Alou Diarra: Overview |publisher=Premier League |access-date=17 August 2022}}</ref>
| birth_place = [[Villepinte, Seine-Saint-Denis|Villepinte]], France
| height = 1.90 m<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/team/squad/diarra/ |title=Alou Diarra |publisher=Liverpool F.C. |access-date=17 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021019181250/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/team/squad/diarra/ |archive-date=19 October 2002}}</ref>
| position = [[Defensive midfielder]]
| currentclub = [[Queens Park Rangers F.C.|Queens Park Rangers]] (assistant manager)
| youthyears1 = 1987–1993
| youthclubs1 = Aulnay-sous-Bois
| youthyears2 = 1993–1997
| youthclubs2 = Villepinte
| youthyears3 = 1997–1999
| youthclubs3 = [[CS Louhans-Cuiseaux|Louhans-Cuiseaux]]
| years1 = 1999–2000
| clubs1 = [[CS Louhans-Cuiseaux|Louhans-Cuiseaux]]
| caps1 = 3
| goals1 = 0
| years2 = 2000–2002
| clubs2 = [[FC Bayern Munich II|Bayern Munich II]]
| caps2 = 41
| goals2 = 5
| years3 = 2000–2002
| clubs3 = [[FC Bayern Munich|Bayern Munich]]
| caps3 = 0
| goals3 = 0
| years5 = 2002–2005
| clubs5 = [[Liverpool F.C.|Liverpool]]
| caps5 = 0
| goals5 = 0
| years6 = 2002–2003
| clubs6 = → [[Le Havre AC|Le Havre]] (loan)
| caps6 = 25
| goals6 = 0
| years7 = 2003–2004
| clubs7 = → [[SC Bastia|Bastia]] (loan)
| caps7 = 35
| goals7 = 4
| years8 = 2004–2005
| clubs8 = → [[RC Lens|Lens]] (loan)
| caps8 = 34
| goals8 = 2
| years9 = 2005–2006
| clubs9 = [[RC Lens|Lens]]
| caps9 = 32
| goals9 = 2
| years10 = 2006–2007
| clubs10 = [[Olympique Lyonnais|Lyon]]
| caps10 = 15
| goals10 = 1
| years11 = 2007–2011
| clubs11 = [[FC Girondins de Bordeaux|Bordeaux]]
| caps11 = 133
| goals11 = 11
| years12 = 2011–2012
| clubs12 = [[Olympique de Marseille|Marseille]]
| caps12 = 34
| goals12 = 2
| years13 = 2012–2014
| clubs13 = [[West Ham United F.C.|West Ham United]]
| caps13 = 6
| goals13 = 0
| years14 = 2013
| clubs14 = → [[Stade Rennais F.C.|Rennes]] (loan)
| caps14 = 12
| goals14 = 0
| years15 = 2015–2016
| clubs15 = [[Charlton Athletic F.C.|Charlton Athletic]]
| caps15 = 44
| goals15 = 1
| years16 = 2016–2017
| clubs16 = [[AS Nancy|Nancy]]
| caps16 = 18
| goals16 = 2
| totalcaps = 432
| totalgoals = 30
| nationalyears1 = 2001–2002
| nationalteam1 = [[France national under-20 football team|France U20]]
| nationalcaps1 = 5
| nationalgoals1 = 0
| nationalyears2 = 2002–2004
| nationalteam2 = [[France national under-21 football team|France U21]]
| nationalcaps2 = 14
| nationalgoals2 = 1
| nationalyears3 = 2004–2012
| nationalteam3 = [[France national football team|France]]
| nationalcaps3 = 44
| nationalgoals3 = 0
| manageryears1 = 2019–2020
| managerclubs1 = [[RC Lens|Lens B]] (assistant)
| manageryears2 = 2020–2022
| managerclubs2 = [[RC Lens|Lens]] (assistant)
| manageryears3 = 2023–2025
| managerclubs3 = [[ES Troyes AC|Troyes B]]
| manageryears4 = 2025–
| managerclubs4 = [[Queens Park Rangers F.C.|Queens Park Rangers]] (assistant)
| medaltemplates = {{Medal|Sport|Men's [[Association football|football]]}}
{{medal|Country|{{fb|FRA}}}}
{{MedalCompetition|[[FIFA World Cup]]}}
{{Medal|RU|[[2006 FIFA World Cup|2006]]|}}
}}
'''Alou Diarra''' (born 15 July 1981) is a French professional [[association football|football]] coach and former player who is currently assistant manager at English [[EFL Championship|Championship]] club [[Queens Park Rangers F.C.|Queens Park Rangers]]. Known for his leadership ability, he had served as captain of both [[FC Girondins de Bordeaux|Bordeaux]] and the [[France national football team|France national team]].

Diarra primarily played as a [[defensive midfielder]], but could also deputise as a [[centre-back]] if necessary. He was described as a player who is "strong, athletic and very powerful" and possesses a "combative edge" similar to former [[France national football team|French international]] [[Patrick Vieira]].<ref>{{Cite news | url = https://www.theguardian.com/football/2006/jan/05/newsstory.sport4 | title = Wenger weighs up £5m move for Liverpool cast-off Diarra |date = 5 January 2006 | access-date =3 March 2011 | location=London | work=The Guardian | first=Matt | last=Scott}}</ref> 

Diarra began his career playing for clubs based in [[Seine-Saint-Denis]], such as Aulnay and hometown club Villepinte. In 1997, he joined [[CS Louhans-Cuiseaux|Louhans-Cuiseaux]] and made his professional debut with the club in the [[1999–2000 French Division 2|1999–2000 season]] while the club was playing in the [[Ligue 2|second division]]. 

In 2000, Diarra was recruited by German club [[FC Bayern Munich|Bayern Munich]]. He spent two years playing on the club's reserve team, [[Bayern Munich II]]. In 2002, he was signed by compatriot [[Gérard Houllier]] as part of the manager's ''French Revolution'' to play for English club [[Liverpool F.C.|Liverpool]]. Diarra's stint at the club was deemed a disappointment as he spent both years at the club on loan in France playing for [[Le Havre AC|Le Havre]], [[SC Bastia|Bastia]] and [[RC Lens|Lens]].

After a successful 2004–05 season with Lens, Diarra made a permanent return to France joining the club from Liverpool on a permanent deal. He spent two seasons at the club amassing over 70 appearances before signing with the then five-time defending champions [[Olympique Lyonnais|Lyon]]. At Lyon, Diarra struggled for playing time and left the club to join [[FC Girondins de Bordeaux|Bordeaux]] after one year. He did earn a winner's medal as a result of the club winning the [[2006–07 Ligue 1]] title. With Bordeaux, Diarra was ever-present within the team under manager [[Laurent Blanc]]. He was a prominent figure on the Bordeaux team that won the [[Double (association football)|league and league cup double]] in the [[2008–09 Ligue 1|2008–09 season]]. Diarra has also won two [[Trophée des champions]] while playing for the club.

Diarra was also a [[France national football team|France international]] from 2004 until 2012. Prior to playing at senior level, he played at [[France national under-20 football team|under-20]] and [[France national under-21 football team|under-21]] level. With the under-20 team, Diarra played on the team that participated in the [[2001 FIFA World Youth Championship]]. He made his senior international debut in October 2004 in a [[Exhibition match|friendly match]] against the [[Republic of Ireland national football team|Republic of Ireland]]. Diarra has participated in both the [[2006 FIFA World Cup|2006]] and [[2010 FIFA World Cup|2010]] editions of the [[FIFA World Cup]]. In the 2006 competition, he appeared in a group stage match against [[Togo national football team|Togo]] and [[2006 FIFA World Cup Final|the final match]] against [[Italy national football team|Italy]] as a substitute. In the 2010 edition, Diarra captained France for the first time in the team's final group stage match against [[South Africa national football team|South Africa]].

== Personal life ==
Diarra was born in the [[Communes of France|commune]] of [[Villepinte, Seine-Saint-Denis|Villepinte]] in the [[Departments of France|department]] of [[Seine-Saint-Denis]] to [[Mali]]an parents.<ref name="alou_career">{{Cite web | url = http://www.rmc.fr/editorial/111685/alou-diarra-le-perseverant/ | publisher=[[Radio Monte Carlo|RMC Sport]] | title = Alou Diarra, le persévérant |date = 20 May 2010 | access-date =3 March 2011 | language = fr}}</ref> He has three younger brothers and one sister. One of his brothers, Zanké, is also a footballer and currently plays for French club [[US Quevilly|Quevilly]] in the [[Championnat National]], the third division of French football. He had previously played for the [[Paris Saint-Germain F.C. Reserves and Academy|reserve team]] of professional club [[Paris Saint-Germain F.C.|Paris Saint-Germain]], but was released in 2010. Another brother, Idrissa, assists in running a [[social networking]] site that helps amateur footballers find a club.<ref name="alou_family">{{Cite web | url = http://www.leparisien.fr/sports/zanke-diarra-dans-l-ombre-d-alou-29-12-2010-1205880.php |work=Le Parisien |location=France | title = Zanké Diarra, dans l'ombre d'Alou |date = 29 December 2010| access-date =7 April 2011 | language = fr}}</ref> Diarra and his siblings were raised in the neighborhood of Rose des Vents located in the nearby commune of [[Aulnay-sous-Bois]], where his parents still reside.<ref name="alou_family"/> He is currently married and has two children. On 28 May 2010, ahead of the [[2010 FIFA World Cup]], Diarra departed the national team's training camp to be beside his wife as she gave birth to his second child.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.footmercato.net/edf-alou-diarra-quitte-ses-partenaires_50119 | publisher=FootMercato | title = Alou Diarra quitte ses partenaires |date = 28 May 2010 | access-date =7 April 2011 | language = fr}}</ref>

== Club career ==

=== Early career ===
Diarra began his football career at hometown club Aulnay.<ref name="alou_career"/> After six years in Aulnay, Diarra moved back to his birth city to join Villepinte. While in the youth academy of Villepinte, he struggled to attract the attention of professional clubs often personally contacting clubs in order to earn [[Evaluation|trials]]. Diarra was ultimately denied several opportunities, most notably by [[Le Mans FC|Le Mans]] and, according to his brother, the struggle made the elder Diarra "very motivated to succeed".<ref name="alou_career"/><ref name="alou_career2">{{Cite web | url = http://www.rmc.fr/editorial/131388/diarra-juste-quelqu-un-de-bien/ | publisher=[[Radio Monte Carlo|RMC Sport]] | title = Diarra, juste quelqu'un de bien... |date = 20 October 2010 | access-date =4 March 2011 | language = fr}}</ref>

In 1997, Diarra was signed to an amateur contract by professional club [[CS Louhans-Cuiseaux|Louhans-Cuiseaux]] who were playing in [[Ligue 2]], the second level of [[Football in France|French football]], and was inserted into the club's youth academy. In the 1998–99 season, Diarra was promoted to the club's reserve team and spent two seasons playing there. In the latter part of the [[1999–2000 French Division 2|1999–2000 season]], he was called up to the senior team by manager [[Philippe Hinschberger]]. On 15 April 2000, Diarra made his professional debut in a 2–1 defeat to [[Toulouse FC|Toulouse]] picking up a [[Penalty card|yellow card]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue2/feuille_match/45708 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Louhans-Cuiseaux v. Toulouse Match Report |date=15 April 2000 |access-date=3 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521183800/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue2/feuille_match/45708 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref> Two weeks later, he made his first professional start in the team's 3–2 loss to [[Chamois Niortais F.C.|Niort]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue2/feuille_match/45660 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Louhans-Cuiseaux v. Niort Match Report |date=29 April 2000 |access-date=3 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184123/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue2/feuille_match/45660 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref> In his final appearance with Louhans-Cuiseaux, Diarra received his first red card of his career after incurring two yellow card infractions in a 2–1 defeat to Le Mans.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue2/feuille_match/45660 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Le Mans v. Louhans-Cuiseaux Match Report |date=5 May 2000 |access-date=3 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184123/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue2/feuille_match/45660 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref> Louhans-Cuiseaux finished the campaign in last place and were relegated to the semi-professional [[Championnat National]], the third division of French football. After the season, Louhans-Cuiseaux attempted to tie down Diarra on a long-term deal and offered the player a trainee contract. Diarra refused the deal and was subsequently available to sign with any club on a [[Free transfer (football)|free transfer]].<ref name="alou_contract">{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/media-watch/diarra-in-french-dispute |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Diarra in French dispute |date=20 September 2002 |access-date=3 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629141100/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/media-watch/diarra-in-french-dispute |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref>

=== Bayern Munich ===
[[File:Gérard Houllier.jpg|thumb|175px|[[Gérard Houllier]] recruited Diarra at [[Liverpool F.C.|Liverpool]] and later managed the player again at [[Olympique Lyonnais|Lyon]].]]

During the summer of 2000, Diarra was signed by German club [[FC Bayern Munich|Bayern Munich]] after the club saw him play one match with Louhans-Cuiseaux.<ref name="alou_career2"/> Upon his arrival to the club, he was immediately placed onto the club's reserve team, [[Bayern Munich II]], in the [[Regionalliga Süd (1994–2012)|Regionalliga Süd]], the (then) third level of [[Football in Germany|German football]]. Diarra was a regular within the team playing alongside the likes of [[Owen Hargreaves]], [[Philipp Lahm]], [[Bastian Schweinsteiger]] and [[Zvjezdan Misimović]].<ref name="alou_bayern">{{Cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/01de-0e7317abdc2f-cd00d0ed2e74-1000--diarra-keeping-plenty-in-reserve-for-bayern/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110628202704/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/matches/season%3D2010/round%3D2000028/match%3D2000396/prematch/focus/index.html |url-status=live |archive-date=28 June 2011 |publisher=[[UEFA|Union of European Football Associations]] |title=Diarra keeping plenty in reserve for Bayern |date=21 October 2009 |access-date=3 March 2011 }}</ref> In his first season with the reserve team, he appeared in 28 matches scoring four goals. Diarra's influence in the team was immediate as he scored his first goal for the team in the first league match of the season against [[VfR Mannheim]] in a 4–2 defeat.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.fussballdaten.de/regionalliga/sued/2001/1/bayernii-vfrmannheim/ | publisher=Fussballdaten | title = Spielstatistik FC Bayern München II&nbsp;– VfR Mannheim |date = 30 July 2000 | access-date =3 March 2011 | language = de}}</ref> His combative style of play also began to take shape as he collected nine yellow cards during the campaign with seven of them coming in the team's first 17 matches.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.fussballdaten.de/spieler/diarraalou/2001/#Regionalliga_Sued | publisher=Fussballdaten | title = Spiele als Spieler 2000/2001 | access-date =7 April 2011 | language = de}}</ref> The season was ultimately a success for Diarra partly due to the player being promoted to the senior team for the [[2001–02 Bundesliga|2001–02 season]] by manager [[Ottmar Hitzfeld]]. He was assigned the number 30 shirt.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.geocities.ws/rien0101/0102.htm | publisher=[[Geocities]] | title = Team of 2001/2002 | access-date =7 April 2011 }}</ref>

Diarra began the 2001–02 season by making the bench in several of the team's league matches in August and September, but failing to make an appearance. In October 2001, he was dropped back down to the club's reserve team and appeared in four matches before earning promotion back to the senior team for its [[2001 Intercontinental Cup]] showdown with [[Argentina|Argentine]] club [[Boca Juniors]]. Diarra made the bench for the match, but did not feature as Bayern won the match courtesy of an extra time goal from [[Samuel Kuffour]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/classicfootball/clubs/matchreport/newsid=510885.html#toyota+cup+2001 |publisher=[[FIFA|Fédération Internationale de Football Association]] |title=Toyota Cup 2001 |date=27 November 2001 |access-date=3 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091108055837/http://www.fifa.com/classicfootball/clubs/matchreport/newsid%3D510885.html |archive-date=8 November 2009}}</ref> The victory gave Diarra his first major honour of his career. Afterwards, he returned to the reserve team and later suffered an injury, which required a lengthy absence.<ref name="alou_bild">{{Cite web | url = http://www.bild.de/sport/fussball/bayern-muenchen/bayern-amateur-jetzt-bordeaux-kapitaen-10165790.bild.html | archive-url = https://archive.today/20130210162011/http://www.bild.de/sport/fussball/bayern-muenchen/bayern-amateur-jetzt-bordeaux-kapitaen-10165790.bild.html | url-status = dead | archive-date = 10 February 2013 | publisher = [[Bild]] | title = Bayern verdient bei jedem Diarra-Wechsel | date = 21 October 2009 | access-date = 2 October 2011 }}</ref> Diarra rejoined the team in March 2002 under new manager [[Hermann Gerland]] and made nine more appearances.<ref name="alou_bild"/> Following the season, Diarra was offered a new three-year contract with the club, but rejected it citing his limited playing time.<ref name="alou_bild"/><ref name="alou_liverpool">{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-11-useless-facts-you-must-know |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Diarra: 11 useless facts you must know! |date=10 July 2002 |access-date=3 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629140801/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-11-useless-facts-you-must-know |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref> Despite his disappointing stint with Bayern, which included failing to make an appearance with the club's senior team, in 2009, Diarra stated "I have very fond memories of my time in Bayern".<ref name="alou_bayern"/> Following Diarra's success at [[FC Girondins de Bordeaux|Bordeaux]], Bayern's general manager [[Uli Hoeneß]] admitted that Diarra's rise to prominence as a footballer is "one of the seven wonders of the world". Hoeneß admitted that he was surprised by Diarra's resurgence, stating: "If somebody had told me [he would return for a UEFA Champions League game] five years ago and made a bet with me, I would have lost a fortune".<ref name="alou_bayern"/> Since Diarra departing the club in 2002, due to [[FIFA]] compensation laws, Bayern have recouped over €800,000 as a result of the player's future transfers.<ref name="alou_bild"/>

=== Liverpool ===
On 3 July 2002, English club [[Liverpool F.C.|Liverpool]] confirmed its interest in signing Diarra under the guidance of manager [[Gérard Houllier]], who had likened the player to [[Patrick Vieira]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/liverpool-confirm-interest-in-diarra |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Liverpool confirm interest in Diarra |date=3 July 2002 |access-date=3 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629140816/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/liverpool-confirm-interest-in-diarra |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref> Liverpool were also in competition with Italian club [[Juventus FC|Juventus]] and several French clubs.<ref name="alou_liverpool"/> On 9 July, Liverpool confirmed that the club had signed the player from Bayern Munich. Diarra agreed to a five-year contract and made his club debut against [[Le Havre AC|Le Havre]] during the club's pre-season.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/houllier-swoops-for-midfielder |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Houllier swoops for midfielder |date=9 July 2002 |access-date=3 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629140854/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/houllier-swoops-for-midfielder |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-makes-reds-debut |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Diarra makes Reds debut |date=19 July 2002 |access-date=3 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629140915/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-makes-reds-debut |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref> A day after the match against Le Havre, it was reported that Diarra was on a verge of a loan move to the same club.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-loan-move-a-possibility |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Diarra loan move a possibility |date=20 July 2002 |access-date=3 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629141025/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-loan-move-a-possibility |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref> On 1 August, the loan was confirmed.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-loan-deal-done |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Diarra loan deal done |date=1 August 2002 |access-date=3 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629141040/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-loan-deal-done |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref>

==== Loan stints in France ====
Diarra made his debut for Le Havre on 17 August 2002 in the team's 1–1 draw with [[RC Strasbourg|Strasbourg]] appearing as a substitute.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/47521 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Strasbourg v. Le Havre Match Report |date=17 August 2002 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184224/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/47521 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref> He was a frequent starter for the majority of the fall season, but, following the winter break, began appearing primarily as a substitute. In September 2002, Diarra's contract dispute with Louhans-Cuiseaux came into the spotlight after his former club admitted that the player was reportedly banned from playing in France professionally for three years due to moving abroad without Louhans-Cuiseaux receiving a trainers' compensation fee.<ref name="alou_contract"/> Louhans-Cuiseaux reported the situation to [[FIFA]], however, the organization ruled in favor of Diarra who was allowed to continue his career with Le Havre. Diarra scored his first professional goal on 25 January 2003 in a 2–1 defeat to [[Stade Lavallois|Laval]] in the [[Coupe de France]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-on-target-for-le-havre |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Diarra on target for Le Havre |date=26 January 2003 |access-date=3 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629141126/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-on-target-for-le-havre |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref> He finished the campaign with 28 total appearances.

{{Quote box | width=30% | align=right | quote= "Do you see the Liverpool group? They are all internationals or more famous players. I had a long talk with Rafa Benítez and he could not guarantee me a first team place. I didn't want to only play ten games a season." |source= <small>Diarra, after his third loan stint to [[RC Lens|Lens]] was confirmed.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-loan-deal-doesn-t-mean-i-m-hopeless |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Diarra: Loan deal doesn't mean Im hopeless |date=27 July 2004 |access-date=3 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629141401/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-loan-deal-doesn-t-mean-i-m-hopeless |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref> </small> }}

In the 2003 off-season, Diarra admitted that he would love to return to Liverpool stating "I'm someone who is ambitious and I hope to win my place at Anfield next season".<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-hoping-for-anfield-return |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Diarra hoping for Anfield return |date=19 June 2003 |access-date=3 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629141206/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-hoping-for-anfield-return |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref> However, in July 2003, Houllier confirmed that Diarra would remain in France on loan, this time with [[Corsica]]n club [[SC Bastia|Bastia]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-set-for-another-loan-spell |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Diarra set for another loan spell |date=15 June 2003 |access-date=3 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629141228/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-set-for-another-loan-spell |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref> Upon his arrival to the club, Diarra was inserted as a starter by manager [[Gérard Gili]] and paid immediate dividends scoring in back-to-back weeks in a 4–2 win against [[En Avant de Guingamp|Guingamp]] and a 4–1 loss to [[AJ Auxerre|Auxerre]] in September.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/48102 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Bastia v. Guingamp Match Report |date=13 September 2003 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184241/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/48102 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/48112 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Auxerre v. Bastia Match Report |date=20 September 2003 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184252/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/48112 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref> On 7 March 2004, he scored a goal in Bastia's surprising 4–1 win over [[Olympique de Marseille|Marseille]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/48251 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Bastia v. Marseille Match Report |date=20 September 2003 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184304/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/48251 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref> Diarra ultimately finished the campaign with 38 total appearances and four goals. After the season, Diarra returned to Liverpool for pre-season training, however, not under the guidance of his recruiter Houllier, but under Spanish coach [[Rafael Benítez]]. As a result, he was, for the third consecutive season, linked with a loan move.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/media-watch/lens-eye-diarra-loan-move |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Lens eye Diarra loan move |date=23 July 2004 |access-date=3 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629141254/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/media-watch/lens-eye-diarra-loan-move |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref> His non-inclusion on the club's roster for its North America tour meant a loan move was inevitable and, on 27 July 2004, he was loaned to [[RC Lens|Lens]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-set-to-go-out-on-loan-again |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Diarra set to go out on loan again |date=27 July 2004 |access-date=3 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629141321/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-set-to-go-out-on-loan-again |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref>

Similar to his stint at Bastia, Diarra was included in the team as a starter by coach [[Joël Muller]]. The season was a major success for Diarra as he was the only player in the team to start every league match he played for the club. He also served as captain for a majority of the season. His consistent performances led to his call up to the senior national team. Diarra scored his first goal of the campaign in a 1–1 draw with [[AC Ajaccio|Ajaccio]]. He scored the goal in the opening minute of the match.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/48934 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Lens v. Ajaccio Match Report |date=2 October 2004 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184314/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/48934 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref> On 6 February 2005, Diarra scored the opener in team's 2–0 win over [[Paris Saint-Germain F.C.|Paris Saint-Germain]] at the [[Parc des Princes]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/49071 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Paris Saint-Germain v. Lens Match Report |date=6 February 2005 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184327/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/49071 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref> He finished the campaign with 37 total appearances and two goals. Diarra also collected 11 yellow cards.

=== Lens ===
After establishing himself as a premier player in France and an international during the 2004–05 campaign, Benítez declared that Diarra still had a future at Liverpool stating "I think it's still early days for him, but it's good news for us to see a young player doing so well. If he continues to play well for his club and is in the national team, we will be reminding everyone he is our player".<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/rafa-diarra-can-have-a-future-here |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Rafa: Diarra can have a future here |date=14 October 2004 |access-date=4 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629141440/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/rafa-diarra-can-have-a-future-here |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref> However, in April 2005, Diarra revealed that he wanted to stay with Lens for the long-term.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-i-want-to-stay-at-lens |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Diarra: I want to stay at Lens |date=19 April 2005 |access-date=4 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629141455/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-i-want-to-stay-at-lens |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref> After finishing the season, on 24 June 2005, Liverpool granted his request after Lens reached an agreement with the club on a transfer fee, purported to be €3.2&nbsp;million.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/lens-agree-terms-for-diarra |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Lens agree terms for Diarra |date=24 June 2005 |access-date=4 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629141514/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/lens-agree-terms-for-diarra |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref> Diarra finished his Liverpool career with no first-team appearances and only one club appearance, which came in a pre-season friendly.

Diarra remained a starter at Lens and also retained his consistency appearing in a career-high 44 matches, scoring two goals, and providing four assists. His two goals came in a 2–1 away win over [[AS Nancy|Nancy]] and a 2–2 draw with [[OGC Nice|Nice]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/49702 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Nancy v. Lens Match Report |date=13 August 2005 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184342/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/49702 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/49759 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Lens v. Nice Match Report |date=15 October 2005 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184354/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/49759 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref> Diarra also played [[UEFA|European]] football for the first time in his career playing in the [[2005–06 UEFA Cup|2005–06 edition]] of the [[UEFA Cup]]. He made his European debut on 3 July 2005 in a [[UEFA Intertoto Cup]] second round tie against [[Poland|Polish]] club [[Lech Poznań]]. Diarra ultimately appeared in ten matches in the club's European campaign as Lens reached the Round of 32 where the club was defeated 3–1 on aggregate by Italian outfit [[Udinese Calcio|Udinese]].

=== Lyon ===
Following the [[2006 FIFA World Cup]], Diarra was linked with a move to the then five-time defending champions [[Olympique Lyonnais|Lyon]] where he could reunite with former manager Gérard Houllier. On 23 August 2006, the move came to fruition following the departure of Diarra's namesake, [[Mahamadou Diarra|Mahamadou]], who moved to Spanish club [[Real Madrid C.F.|Real Madrid]] for a fee of €26&nbsp;million. The transfer fee was priced at €6.25&nbsp;million and Diarra was assigned the number 18 shirt.<ref>{{Cite news | url = http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11679_2387320,00.html | publisher=[[Sky Sports]] | title = Diarra agrees Lyon move |date = 23 August 2006 | access-date =3 March 2011 }}</ref> Diarra struggled to make an impact at the club as Houllier preferred the younger [[Jérémy Toulalan]] and [[Tiago Mendes]] as his starting defensive midfielder and box-to-box midfielder, respectively. He made his club debut late in the season on 16 September 2006 in the team's 3–1 away win over [[FC Lorient|Lorient]].<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/50570 | publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] | title = Lorient v. Lyon Match Report |date = 16 September 2006 | access-date =3 March 2011 | language = fr}}</ref> Diarra scored his first goal for the club on 6 December 2006 in the club's final [[UEFA Champions League]] group stage match against [[Romania]]n club [[FC Steaua București|Steaua București]]. The match ended in a 1–1 draw.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://en.archive.uefa.com/competitions/ucl/history/season=2006/round=2357/match=1116403/index.html |publisher=[[UEFA|Union of European Football Associations]] |title=Steaua denied by Diarra strike |date=6 December 2006 |access-date=3 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160114080421/http://en.archive.uefa.com/competitions/ucl/history/season%3D2006/round%3D2357/match%3D1116403/index.html |archive-date=14 January 2016 }}</ref> Two weeks later, he scored his second goal in the team's 3–1 win over Nancy in the [[Coupe de la Ligue]] quarterfinals.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.lfp.fr/coupeLigue/feuille_match/51293 | publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] | title = Lyon v. Nancy Match Report |date = 20 December 2006 | access-date =3 March 2011 | language = fr}}</ref>

Following the winter break, Diarra struggled with a thigh injury and didn't appear with the team for almost three months. In March 2007, he finally returned to the team in its 3–1 win over [[Derby du Rhône]] rivals [[AS Saint-Étienne|Saint-Étienne]] appearing as a substitute.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/50855 | publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] | title = Saint-Étienne v. Lyon Match Report |date = 3 March 2007 | access-date =3 March 2011 | language = fr}}</ref> During the season, Diarra complained twice with regards to playing time, which led to Houllier equivocally questioning Diarra's ego.<ref>{{Cite news | url = http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11806_2392902,00.html | publisher=[[Sky Sports]] | title = Diarra reveals Lyon woe |date = 16 October 2006 | access-date =3 March 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news | url = http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11806_2408575,00.html | publisher=[[Sky Sports]] | title = Diarra to seek Lyon talks |date = 17 March 2007 | access-date =3 March 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.football365.fr/france/infos-clubs/lyon/article_160314_-On-a-habitue-nos-supporters-au-caviar-.shtml | publisher = Football365 | title = Exclusivité / Gérard Houllier: "On a habitué nos supporters au caviar" | date = 6 April 2007 | access-date = 3 March 2011 | language = fr | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110720215841/http://www.football365.fr/france/infos-clubs/lyon/article_160314_-On-a-habitue-nos-supporters-au-caviar-.shtml | archive-date = 20 July 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> The feud culminated on 6 April when Houllier dropped Diarra from the squad to face [[Valenciennes FC|Valenciennes]] the following day and then ordered him to play for the club's reserve team in the [[Championnat de France amateur]], the fourth level of [[Football in France|French football]]. Diarra refused the orders and Houllier responded by reportedly threatening not to play him for the rest of the season.<ref>{{Cite news | url = http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11806_2410543,00.html | publisher=[[Sky Sports]] | title = Diarra in Houllier spat |date = 7 April 2007 | access-date =3 March 2011 }}</ref> The Lyon manager later stated the Diarra should issue an apology to him and the team.<ref>{{Cite news | url = http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11806_2410917,00.html | publisher=[[Sky Sports]] | title = Diarra spats with Houllier |date = 11 April 2007 | access-date =3 March 2011 }}</ref> The defensive midfielder did not budge and, subsequently, missed the team's next four league matches, as well as the [[2007 Coupe de la Ligue Final]]. Diarra returned to the team on 28 April playing the entire match in a 3–1 win over Le Mans.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/50816 | publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] | title = Lyon v. Le Mans Match Report |date = 28 April 2007 | access-date =3 March 2011 | language = fr}}</ref> He repeated this feat in three of the team's last five matches as Lyon were crowned champions for the sixth consecutive season. Included in one of those three matches was Diarra's first league goal for the club, which came in a 3–0 victory over his former club Lens.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/50804 | publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] | title = Lyon v. Lens Match Report |date = 9 May 2007 | access-date =3 March 2011 | language = fr}}</ref>

=== Bordeaux ===
==== 2007–2009 ====
[[File:Alou Diarra.jpg|thumb|upright|200px|Diarra during a training session with Bordeaux.]]

After the 2006–07 season with Lyon, Diarra sought to play for another club and was linked primarily to English clubs [[Manchester City F.C.|Manchester City]] and [[Portsmouth F.C.|Portsmouth]]. In July 2007, Lyon president [[Jean-Michel Aulas]] confirmed that the club had accepted a bid of [[British pound|£]]5&nbsp;million from Portsmouth. However, Aulas also revealed that Diarra refused the move and preferred to stay in France and join Bordeaux.<ref>{{Cite news | url = http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11674_2595761,00.html | publisher=[[Sky Sports]] | title = Diarra snubbed Pompey chance |date = 18 July 2007 | access-date =3 March 2011 }}</ref> On 20 July, after a week-long negotiation, Bordeaux confirmed the signing of Diarra. The midfielder signed a four-year contract and the transfer fee was priced at €7.75&nbsp;million.<ref>{{Cite news | url = http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11806_2410917,00.html | publisher=[[Sky Sports]] | title = Diarra opts for Bordeaux |date = 20 July 2007 | access-date =3 March 2011 }}</ref> Diarra stated his primary reason for joining Bordeaux over Portsmouth was because Bordeaux "wants to play for the first positions in Ligue 1 and I am attracted to that".<ref>{{Cite news | url = http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11674_2610234,00.html | publisher=[[Sky Sports]] | title = Diarra reveals Pompey snub |date = 13 July 2007 | access-date =3 March 2011 }}</ref> Diarra was signed as a replacement for the departed [[Rio Mavuba]] who ventured to Spain. His arrival to the club also coincided with the insertion of former football player [[Laurent Blanc]] as manager.

Diarra was assigned the number 4 shirt and made his competitive debut for the club on 4 August 2007 in a 1–0 league win over his former club Lens receiving a yellow card.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/51301 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Bordeaux v. Lens Match Report |date=4 August 2007 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184406/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/51301 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref> On 29 August, he scored his first goal for the club in its 1–0 win over [[FC Metz|Metz]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/51347 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Metz v. Bordeaux Match Report |date=29 August 2007 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184413/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/51347 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref> Diarra was a regular within the starting lineup for the entire season starting all 36 league matches he appeared in. He formed excellent midfield partnerships with box-to-box midfielders [[Alejandro Alonso (footballer)|Alejandro Alonso]] and [[Fernando Menegazzo]] who gave Diarra the freedom to distribute the ball and dismantle impending attacks from the opposition. On 2 December, Diarra scored a goal in Bordeaux's 4–3 win over [[Derby de la Garonne]] rivals Toulouse.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/51420 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Bordeaux v. Toulouse Match Report |date=2 December 2007 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120313203400/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/51420 |archive-date=13 March 2012 }}</ref>

Diarra also participated in European competition with Bordeaux during the season. He played in four matches during the club's UEFA Cup campaign. Bordeaux reached the Round of 32 where the club was eliminated by [[Belgium|Belgian]] club [[R.S.C. Anderlecht|Anderlecht]] on a 3–2 aggregate scoreline. In the [[Coupe de France]], Bordeaux reached the quarter-finals. Diarra appeared in all four matches the team contested, which included playing 120 minutes in back-to-back rounds. He scored two more goals for the club; both of which came in the league in wins over Metz and [[Stade Rennais F.C.|Rennes]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/51483 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Bordeaux v. Metz Match Report |date=9 February 2008 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184426/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/51483 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/51563 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Rennes v. Bordeaux Match Report |date=5 April 2008 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184436/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/51563 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref> Bordeaux finished the season in second place; four points behind the champions Lyon. It was the closest gap Lyon had endured since the [[2003–04 Ligue 1|2003–04 season]] when the club won the league by three points over Paris Saint-Germain. Diarra finished the season with 44 total appearances and four goals.

In the [[2008–09 Ligue 1|2008–09 season]], Diarra remained a starter as Bordeaux was boosted by the arrival of the influential [[Yoann Gourcuff]]. He appeared in Bordeaux's 5–4 win on penalties in the [[2008 Trophée des Champions]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/tropheeChampions/feuille_match/53019 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Bordeaux v. Lyon Match Report |date=2 August 2008 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184458/http://new.lfp.fr/tropheeChampions/feuille_match/53019 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref> Bordeaux capitalized on the momentum by going undefeated in eight of its nine opening league matches. Included in those matches was Diarra's first red card for the club, which came in a 1–0 win over Grenoble after he collected two yellow cards. The two infractions came within a span of five minutes.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/52246 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Grenoble v. Bordeaux Match Report |date=20 September 2008 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184514/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/52246 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref> On 21 December 2008, Diarra scored the second team goal in Bordeaux's 4–3 comeback win over [[AS Monaco FC|Monaco]] at the [[Stade Louis II]]. Bordeaux had trailed 3–0 with 40 minutes to go in the match.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/52467 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Monaco v. Bordeaux Match Report |date=21 December 2008 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120430192747/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/52467 |archive-date=30 April 2012 }}</ref> In the [[Coupe de la Ligue]], Bordeaux won the competition. Diarra missed the final match due to injury, but did play in the semi-final match, a 3–0 win over Paris Saint-Germain, that resulted in Bordeaux qualifying for the final.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/coupeLigue/feuille_match/53018 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Paris Saint-Germain v. Bordeaux Match Report |date=4 February 2009 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184526/http://new.lfp.fr/coupeLigue/feuille_match/53018 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref> In the [[2008–09 UEFA Champions League|2008–09 edition]] of the UEFA Champions League, Diarra appeared in all six group stage matches Bordeaux played in and scored a goal against English club [[Chelsea F.C.|Chelsea]] in a 1–1 draw.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://en.archive.uefa.com/competitions/ucl/history/season=2009/round=15276/match=302753/index.html |publisher=[[UEFA|Union of European Football Associations]] |title=Diarra keeps Bordeaux in contention |date=26 November 2008 |access-date=4 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160114080421/http://en.archive.uefa.com/competitions/ucl/history/season%3D2009/round%3D15276/match%3D302753/index.html |archive-date=14 January 2016 }}</ref> The club's third-place finish in its group meant a return to the UEFA Cup where Bordeaux was eliminated in the Round of 32 for the second consecutive season.

On 19 April 2009, Diarra scored the only goal in Bordeaux's 1–0 win over title rivals Lyon at the [[Stade de Gerland]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/52485 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Lyon v. Bordeaux Match Report |date=19 April 2009 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184541/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/52485 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref> The victory helped the club create a gap between itself and Lyon. Bordeaux, subsequently, went on a six-match winning streak to close out the season, which resulted in the club capturing the sixth title in its history and its first since 1999.<ref>{{Cite news | url = https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2009/jun/01/bordeaux-laurent-blanc-french-football | title = Bordeaux claim Ligue 1 title to justify faith in Laurent Blanc |date = 1 June 2009 | access-date =7 April 2011 | location=London | work=The Guardian | first=Ben | last=Lyttleton}}</ref> Bordeaux also recorded its second ever [[Double (association football)|double]], as a result of its league cup title.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.football365.fr/france/coupe-de-la-ligue/article_313013_Les-Girondins-atomisent-le-VOC.shtml | archive-url = https://archive.today/20120801151825/http://www.football365.fr/france/coupe-de-la-ligue/article_313013_Les-Girondins-atomisent-le-VOC.shtml | url-status = dead | archive-date = 1 August 2012 | publisher = Football365 | title = Les Girondins atomisent le VOC | date = 25 April 2009 | access-date = 7 April 2011 | language = fr }}</ref> Diarra finished the season with a career-high 45 total appearances and three goals.

==== 2009–2011 ====
Ahead of the [[2009–10 Ligue 1|2009–10 season]], following the replacement of captain [[Ulrich Ramé]] as the starting goalkeeper, Blanc tipped Diarra as his replacement to wear the armband. He began the season claiming his fourth silverware with Bordeaux on 25 July 2009, winning the [[2009 Trophée des Champions]] title in a 2–0 victory over [[En Avant de Guingamp|Guingamp]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/tropheeChampions/feuille_match/53542 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Bordeaux v. Guingamp Match Report |date=25 July 2009 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184550/http://new.lfp.fr/tropheeChampions/feuille_match/53542 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref> In the third match of the league, Diarra scored his first goal of the season in a 3–0 win over Nice.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/44982 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Bordeaux v. Nice Match Report |date=23 August 2009 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120513215219/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/44982 |archive-date=13 May 2012 }}</ref> Diarra appeared frequently in the starting lineup during the first half of the campaign, but struggled with injuries through January–March. He missed the first leg of the team's Round of 16 tie with [[Greece|Greek]] club [[Olympiacos F.C.|Olympiacos]]. In the second leg, Diarra returned to the team, but was ejected from the match in the second half after receiving two yellow card infractions.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Bordeaux resist Olympiacos rally |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/01e3-0e7415b86075-5c1e79a1e2c5-1000--bordeaux-resist-olympiacos-rally/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100322193715/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/matches/season%3D2010/round%3D2000029/match%3D2000473/postmatch/report/index.html |url-status=live |archive-date=22 March 2010 |work=[[UEFA|Union of European Football Associations]] |date=17 March 2010 |access-date=31 May 2010 }}</ref> The ejection meant Diarra would miss the first leg of the team's quarter-final tie with league rivals Lyon. Bordeaux lost the tie 3–2 on aggregate.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Lyon hold firm to oust Bordeaux |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/01e4-0e744d0fb0bf-5fc9fa24b42d-1000--lyon-hold-firm-to-oust-bordeaux/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100410185414/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/matches/season%3D2010/round%3D2000030/match%3D2000482/postmatch/report/index.html |url-status=live |archive-date=10 April 2010 |work=[[UEFA|Union of European Football Associations]] |date=7 April 2010 |access-date=31 May 2010 }}</ref> Diarra returned to league play on 13 March 2010 and played the rest of the league campaign missing only one match. Due to injuries to Gourcuff and the declining form of [[Marouane Chamakh]], Bordeaux suffered a dip in form in the spring season, which resulted in Bordeaux failing defend its title or qualify for [[UEFA|European competition]].

Prior to the start of the [[2010–11 in French football|2010–11 season]], Diarra was heavily linked with a move to the champions [[Olympique de Marseille|Marseille]]. On 14 July, Marseille manager [[Didier Deschamps]] confirmed that the club was negotiating with both Diarra and Bordeaux for a transfer.<ref>{{Cite news | url = http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11800_6260499,00.html | publisher=[[Sky Sports]] | title = Marseille begin Diarra talks |date = 14 July 2010 | access-date =3 March 2011 }}</ref> A week later, Bordeaux president Triaud stated that Marseille had failed to meet the player's €7.75&nbsp;million release clause and that Diarra was likely not going to be leaving the club.<ref>{{Cite news | url = http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_6274469,00.html | publisher=[[Sky Sports]] | title = Bordeaux stand firm on Diarra |date = 22 July 2010 | access-date =3 March 2011 }}</ref> Despite Marseille remaining hopeful a deal could go through, on 30 July, a deal was declared dead.<ref>{{Cite news | url = http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_6279907,00.html | publisher=[[Sky Sports]] | title = OM hopeful over Diarra deal|date = 26 July 2010 | access-date =3 March 2011 }}</ref> Diarra later stated that he was happy to remain at Bordeaux and see out the rest of his contract.<ref>{{Cite news | url = http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11800_6287267,00.html | publisher=[[Sky Sports]] | title = Diarra happy at Bordeaux |date = 30 July 2010 | access-date =3 March 2011 }}</ref> The defensive midfielder opened the new campaign scoring two goals in the first six matches of the season in wins over Paris Saint-Germain and Lyon.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/53667 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Paris Saint-Germain v. Bordeaux Match Report |date=22 August 2010 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521183528/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/53667 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/53672 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Bordeaux v. Lyon Match Report |date=19 September 2010 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521184602/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/53672 |archive-date=21 May 2012 }}</ref>

{{Quote box | width=30% | align=left | quote= "The commission and its president have heard me. I will never do this anymore, that's for sure. This is the last time this will happen. I regret it." |source= <small>Diarra, after receiving his six-match suspension by the [[Ligue de Football Professionnel]].<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.rmc.fr/editorial/133484/a-diarra-je-regrette/ | publisher=[[Radio Monte Carlo|RMC Sport]] | title = A. Diarra: "Je regrette..." |date = 4 November 2010 | access-date = 4 March 2011 | language = fr}}</ref> </small> }}

On 16 October 2010, Diarra was involved in a controversial dispute, which resulted in the player being banned from playing league football for six matches. After receiving a yellow card booking from referee Wilfried Bien in the team's 1–0 win over Auxerre, Diarra responded by pushing the referee with both hands.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/53708 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Auxerre v. Bordeaux Match Report |date=16 October 2010 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101022024456/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/53708 |archive-date=22 October 2010 }}</ref> He was immediately shown a red card and [[Dismissal (football)|dismissed]] from the match. After walking off the field, Diarra turned back, walked over to Bien and apologized for the confrontation. After the match, Diarra apologized again for the incident. He was supported by his former coach Laurent Blanc who stated that Diarra made a simple mistake that he immediately regretted as soon as he realized what he did.<ref>{{Cite news | url = http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_6454289,00.html | publisher=[[Sky Sports]] | title = Blanc&nbsp;– Go easy on Diarra |date = 19 October 2010 | access-date =4 March 2011 }}</ref> Diarra was initially suspended for three matches, however, following a November tribunal by the [[Ligue de Football Professionnel]], his suspension was upgraded to six matches.<ref>{{Cite news | url = https://www.usatoday.com/sports/soccer/2010-10-21-4045515963_x.htm |work=USA Today | title = Bordeaux's Alou Diarra suspended for ref shove |date = 21 October 2010 | access-date =4 March 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news | url = http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_6488432,00.html | publisher=[[Sky Sports]] | title = Diarra handed six-game ban |date = 5 November 2010 | access-date =4 March 2011 }}</ref> Diarra returned to the team on 27 November playing only the first half in the team's 1–1 draw with Lille.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/53766 |publisher=[[Ligue de Football Professionnel]] |title=Bordeaux v. Lille Match Report |date=27 November 2010 |access-date=4 March 2011 |language=fr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101201183030/http://new.lfp.fr/ligue1/feuille_match/53766 |archive-date=1 December 2010 }}</ref>

=== Marseille ===
On 4 July 2011, Diarra completed his much-anticipated move from Bordeaux to league rivals [[Olympique de Marseille|Marseille]] agreeing to a three-year contract.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.om.net/fr/Saison/101002/Actualites/54591/Alou_Diarra_a_signe_a_l_OM | publisher = [[Olympique de Marseille]] | title = Alou Diarra a signé à l'OM | date = 4 July 2011 | access-date = 4 July 2011 | language = fr | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120322152401/http://www.om.net/fr/Saison/101002/Actualites/54591/Alou_Diarra_a_signe_a_l_OM | archive-date = 22 March 2012 | url-status = dead | df = dmy-all }}</ref> The transfer fee was undisclosed, but is reported to be in the region of €5 million.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/01f3-0e78d0c206d9-929f577bb427-1000--marseille-move-for-bordeaux-s-diarra/|title=Marseille move for Bordeaux's Diarra|date=4 July 2011|access-date=4 July 2011 |publisher=[[UEFA|Union of European Football Associations]] }}</ref>

=== West Ham United ===
On 10 August 2012, Diarra moved back to England to join [[West Ham United F.C.|West Ham United]] on a three-year contract, for an undisclosed fee.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.whufc.com/articles/20120810/hammers-swoop-for-diarra_2236884_2876423 |publisher=[[West Ham United]] |title=Hammers swoop for Diarra |date=10 August 2012 |access-date=10 August 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120812141803/http://www.whufc.com/articles/20120810/hammers-swoop-for-diarra_2236884_2876423 |archive-date=12 August 2012 }}</ref> After joining West Ham United, Diarra said he was delighted to join the club and was looking forward to play in the Premier League.<ref>{{cite news|title=Diarra happy with Hammers switch|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7979947/|publisher=Sky Sports|date=10 August 2012|access-date=19 February 2013}}</ref> Chairman Vincent Labrune said he had been sold in order to reduce the wage bill.<ref>{{cite news|title=Marseille confirm need to sell|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7988728/|publisher=Sky Sports|date=14 August 2012|access-date=19 February 2013}}</ref>

Diarra made his debut for West Ham on 25 August in a 3–0 away defeat to [[Swansea City A.F.C.|Swansea City]] coming on as a 69th-minute substitute for [[Mohamed Diamé]].<ref name=whudebut>{{cite web|title=Swansea City 3–0 West Ham United FT |url=http://www.whufc.com/articles/20120825/swansea-city-3-0-west-ham-united-ft_2236884_2899779 |publisher=www.whufc.com |access-date=27 August 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120827041324/http://www.whufc.com/articles/20120825/swansea-city-3-0-west-ham-united-ft_2236884_2899779 |archive-date=27 August 2012}}</ref> Having made three appearances, Diarra first team opportunities soon became limited when he suffered thigh strain during training in September.<ref>{{cite news|title=Alou Diarra was frustrated to get injured so early into his West Ham career|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/8152888/|publisher=Sky Sports|date=9 October 2012|access-date=19 February 2013}}</ref> In the January transfer window, Diarra made a request to leave the club and criticised [[Sam Allardyce]] for holding him back by not explaining his [Allardyce] team selection. Diarra also said that his time at West Ham United has become a waste of time
<ref>{{cite news|title=Diarra hits out at Allardyce and asks for West Ham exit|url=http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2892/transfer-zone/2013/01/22/3690942/diarra-hits-out-at-allardyce-and-asks-for-west-ham-exit|website=Goal.com|date=23 January 2013|access-date=19 February 2013}}</ref>

After the move, Diarra claimed he was conned when his "well known" agent lied to him to join West Ham United.<ref>{{cite news|title=Alou Diarra: West Ham were dishonest with me|url=http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2013/02/08/3737093/alou-diarra-west-ham-were-dishonest-with-me|website=Goal.com|date=8 February 2013|access-date=19 February 2013}}</ref> Diarra criticized West Ham United for his pre-season training schedule, having finished Euro 2012.<ref>{{cite news|title=Alou Diarra criticises West Ham pre-season training after thigh injury|url=http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2013/03/14/3824078/alou-diarra-criticises-west-ham-pre-season-training-after|website=Goal.com|date=14 March 2013|access-date=21 May 2013}}</ref> Despite his comments Diarra returned to West Ham for the beginning of the [[2013–14 West Ham United F.C. season|2013–14 season]]. In his second game of the season, a [[Football League Cup|League Cup]] game against [[Cheltenham Town F.C.|Cheltenham Town]], he was carried-off injured after 34 minutes having damaged his [[anterior cruciate]] ligament. He was expected to miss the whole of the season due to this injury.<ref name="acl">{{cite news | url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/west-ham-midfielder-alou-diarra-to-miss-entire-season-with-knee-injury-8791490.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130912105916/http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/west-ham-midfielder-alou-diarra-to-miss-entire-season-with-knee-injury-8791490.html |archive-date=2013-09-12 |url-access=limited |url-status=live | title=West Ham midfielder Alou Diarra to miss entire season with knee injury | work=The Guardian | date=30 August 2013 | access-date=31 August 2013 | author=Bryans, Mark}}</ref> Unexpectedly, Diarra returned to fitness in 2013 making his return in a 2–1 away win against [[Tottenham Hotspur F.C.|Tottenham Hotspur]] on 18 December 2013 in the [[Football League Cup|League Cup]].<ref>{{Soccerbase season|26485|2013|access-date=20 December 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/25328568 | title=Tottenham 1–2 West Ham United | publisher=BBC Sport | access-date=20 December 2013}}</ref> On 9 July 2014, he left West Ham on a mutual agreement to terminate his remaining one-year deal.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.whufc.com/articles/20140709/diarra-departs_2236884_3977263?/|title=Diarra departs&nbsp;– News&nbsp;– Latest News&nbsp;– News&nbsp;– West Ham United|access-date=17 September 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714171208/http://www.whufc.com/articles/20140709/diarra-departs_2236884_3977263?%2F|archive-date=14 July 2014}}</ref>

==== Loan move to Rennes ====
On 31 January 2013 (the transfer deadline), Diarra joined [[Stade Rennais F.C.|Rennes]], on loan until the end of season.<ref name=Rennes>{{cite news|title=West Ham's Alou Diarra joins Rennes on loan for rest of season|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/21287595|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=1 February 2013}}</ref> Several days after returning to France, Diarra made his debut, coming on as a substitute and providing assist for debutant [[Axel Ngando]], who scored his first goal for the club to settle a draw with [[FC Lorient|Lorient]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Ligue 1 Round 23 Results: Barton sees red as Marseille and Lyon hand PSG title advantage|url=http://www.goal.com/en-ie/match/81611/fc-lorient-vs-rennes/report|website=Goal.com|date=2 February 2013|access-date=19 February 2013}}</ref> Diarra made twelve appearances before returning to West Ham United after manager [[Frédéric Antonetti]] publicity criticised him, claiming "he has not been able to give all that he could give".<ref>{{cite news|title=Rennes does not want his flop Alou Diarra|trans-title=Rennes n’en veut pas à son flop Alou Diarra|url=http://www.footmercato.net/ligue1/rennes-n-en-veut-pas-a-son-flop-alou-diarra_105595|publisher=Foot Mercato|language=fr|date=11 May 2013|access-date=19 July 2013}}</ref>

=== Charlton Athletic ===
On 23 February 2015, Diarra signed a deal with Championship side [[Charlton Athletic F.C.|Charlton Athletic]] to last until the end of the season and scored his first goal in a 2–1 loss to [[South London derby|rivals]] [[Millwall F.C.|Millwall]].<ref>{{Cite news |title=Charlton complete signing of Alou Diarra |url=http://www.cafc.co.uk/news/article/charlton-transfer-alou-diarra-2289578.aspx |publisher=Charlton Athletic F.C |date=23 February 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150223164722/http://www.cafc.co.uk/news/article/charlton-transfer-alou-diarra-2289578.aspx |archive-date=23 February 2015}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/32080900|title=Millwall 2-1 Charlton Athletic|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=1 September 2016}}</ref> He later signed an extension till the summer of 2016, with the option of an extra year.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/32204856|title = Diarra signs new Charlton contract|work = BBC Sport}}</ref> On 1 September 2016, Diarra's contract with Charlton was cancelled by mutual consent and on account of wanting to go back to France with his family.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.cafc.co.uk/news/article/2016-17/charlton-alou-diarra-departure-3285651.aspx#zCFjs1mM2dufLAhK.99|title=NEWS {{!}} Alou Diarra leaves Charlton by mutual consent|last=Groome|first=Olly|access-date=1 September 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160901144238/http://www.cafc.co.uk/news/article/2016-17/charlton-alou-diarra-departure-3285651.aspx#zCFjs1mM2dufLAhK.99|archive-date=1 September 2016}}</ref>

[[File:Alou Diarra in action for Charlton.jpg|thumb|Alou Diarra in action for Charlton]]

===Nancy===
On 1 September 2016, Diarra joined [[AS Nancy|Nancy]], which was promoted to Ligue 1 after winning the [[2015–16 Ligue 2]] title, on a one-season deal.<ref>{{cite news|title=Alou Diarra à Nancy|url=https://www.lequipe.fr/Football/Actualites/Alou-diarra-vers-nancy/723319|access-date=2 September 2016|work=L'Équipe|date=1 September 2016|language=fr}}</ref>
On 15 October 2016, Diarra scored Nancy's only goal in a 2–1 home defeat against [[Paris Saint-Germain]] in a Ligue 1 match by heading in [[Benoît Pedretti]]'s free kick from the right in the 55th minute. That was his first Ligue 1 goal since scoring one for [[Olympique de Marseille|Marseille]] in early 2012.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.ligue1.com/ligue1/article/cavani-strikes-again-as-psg-go-second.htm|title=Cavani strikes again as PSG go second|publisher=www.ligue1.com|date=15 October 2016}}</ref> He left the club at the end of the season.<ref>[https://www.lequipe.fr/Football/Actualites/Transfert-dia-diarra-et-puyo-quittent-nancy/806592 Transfert : Dia, Diarra et Puyo quittent Nancy]‚ lequipe.fr, 2 June 2017</ref>

== International career ==

=== Youth ===
Diarra is a former [[France national youth football team|French youth international]] having earned caps at [[France national under-20 football team|under-20]] and [[France national under-21 football team|under-21]] level. He earned his first international youth call up in 2001 by coach [[Raymond Domenech]] ahead of the [[2001 FIFA World Youth Championship]]. Diarra played in the first group stage match; a 5–0 hammering of [[Iran national football team|Iran]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/tournaments/archive/tournament=104/edition=4295/matches/match=22022/report.html |publisher=[[FIFA|Fédération Internationale de Football Association]] |title=Iran&nbsp;– France |date=18 June 2001 |access-date=3 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081011061533/http://www.fifa.com/tournaments/archive/tournament%3D104/edition%3D4295/matches/match%3D22022/report.html |archive-date=11 October 2008}}</ref> In the 30th minute of the match against Iran, Diarra was substituted out due to an injury. The injury was deemed severe and Diarra missed the rest of the tournament. France ultimately crashed out of the competition in the quarter-finals losing 3–1 to a [[Javier Saviola]]-led [[Argentina national under-20 football team|Argentina]]. Diarra's only other confirmed appearance with the under-20 team was in a 1–0 win over [[Egypt national under-20 football team|Egypt]] in April 2002.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.fff.fr/selections/20ans/22748.shtml | publisher = [[French Football Federation]] | title = Du minimum à l'essentiel (1–0) | date = 17 April 2002 | access-date = 3 March 2011 | language = fr | archive-date = 22 July 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120722105815/http://www.fff.fr/selections/20ans/22748.shtml | url-status = dead }}</ref>

Diarra earned his first call up to the under-21 team in August 2002 for a friendly match against [[Cyprus national under-21 football team|Cyprus]]. He made his debut in the match as France cruised to a 1–0 victory.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.fff.fr/selections/espoirs/actualite/32306.shtml | publisher = [[French Football Federation]] | title = Les Bleuets assurent l'essentiel (1–0) | date = 17 April 2002 | access-date = 3 March 2011 | language = fr | archive-date = 20 August 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120820190555/http://www.fff.fr/selections/espoirs/actualite/32306.shtml | url-status = dead }}</ref> Diarra featured regularly within the team as France attempted to qualify for both the [[2004 UEFA European Under-21 Football Championship]] and the [[Football at the 2004 Summer Olympics – Men's tournament|football tournament at the 2004 Summer Olympics]]. France failed to qualify for both competitions, which resulted in the end of Diarra's youth career. He appeared in 10 competitive matches with the team and scored his only goal in a 3–1 UEFA U21 tournament qualification win over [[Israel national under-21 football team|Israel]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://en.archive.uefa.com/competitions/under21/history/season=2004/round=1585/match=69094/index.html |publisher=[[UEFA]] |title=Israel v. France Match Report |date=1 April 2003 |access-date=3 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160114080422/http://en.archive.uefa.com/competitions/under21/history/season%3D2004/round%3D1585/match%3D69094/index.html |archive-date=14 January 2016}}</ref> In December 2003, Diarra was called up to the [[Mali national football team|Mali national team]] to participate in the [[2004 Africa Cup of Nations]].<ref>{{Cite news | url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/africa/3337043.stm | publisher=BBC Sport | title = Kanoute named in Mali squad |date = 20 December 2003 | access-date =3 March 2011 }}</ref> Diarra turned down the opportunity to represent the nation of his parents in order to continue his career with his home country France.

=== Senior ===
On 13 August 2004, Diarra was named to the [[France national football team|senior national team]] for the first time by Domenech to participate in a friendly match against [[Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team|Bosnia and Herzegovina]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/cisse-and-diarra-named-in-france-squad |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Cisse and Diarra named in France squad |date=13 August 2004 |access-date=4 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629141530/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/cisse-and-diarra-named-in-france-squad |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref> He did not make his debut in the match, but was named to the team again in October for [[2006 FIFA World Cup qualification]] matches against the [[Republic of Ireland]] and [[Cyprus national football team|Cyprus]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-shines-in-france |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Diarra shines in France |date=4 October 2004 |access-date=4 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629141616/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-shines-in-france |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref> Diarra earn his debut cap in the match against Ireland appearing as a substitute for [[Olivier Dacourt]] in a 0–0 draw.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-makes-french-debut |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]] |title=Diarra makes French debut |date=10 October 2004 |access-date=4 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629141653/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/diarra-makes-french-debut |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref> He featured with the team heavily in World Cup qualification primarily as a substitute for either Patrick Vieira or [[Claude Makélélé]] and, following France's qualification for the tournament, was named to the team to participate in the competition.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.fff.fr/bleus/actu/304080.shtml | publisher = [[French Football Federation]] | title = Les "Mondialistes" en chiffres | date = 14 May 2006 | access-date = 4 March 2011 | language = fr | archive-date = 10 October 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121010005111/http://www.fff.fr/bleus/actu/304080.shtml | url-status = dead }}</ref> In the competition, Diarra appeared in two matches. He appeared as a substitute for Vieira in the team's final group stage match against [[Togo national football team|Togo]] and repeated this in the [[2006 FIFA World Cup Final|final match]] against [[Italy national football team|Italy]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/archive/germany2006/results/matches/match=97410045/report.html |publisher=[[FIFA|Fédération Internationale de Football Association]] |title=Togo&nbsp;– France |date=23 June 2006 |access-date=3 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722135600/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/archive/germany2006/results/matches/match%3D97410045/report.html |archive-date=22 July 2011}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/archive/germany2006/results/matches/match=97410064/report.html | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070713165908/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/archive/germany2006/results/matches/match=97410064/report.html | url-status = dead | archive-date = 13 July 2007 | publisher=[[FIFA|Fédération Internationale de Football Association]] | title = Italy&nbsp;– France |date = 9 July 2006 | access-date =3 March 2011}}</ref> France lost the final 5–3 in a penalty shootout, which Diarra did not participate in.

After appearing in a November 2006 friendly match against [[Greece national football team|Greece]], Diarra was absent from the national team for nearly two years, partly due to his struggle for playing time in [[Lyon]]. As a result, he missed [[UEFA Euro 2008]], although he was named to the competition's preliminary squad. After regaining his form at Bordeaux, Diarra began making his way back into the team and participated in seven [[2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying]] matches. He was later selected to participate in his second consecutive FIFA World Cup. France endured a disastrous campaign as the players went on strike in response to its disagreement over the expulsion of [[Striker (association football)|striker]] [[Nicolas Anelka]] from the team. In the team's final group stage match against hosts [[South Africa national football team|South Africa]], with several veteran players missing from the squad, Diarra was rewarded with the captaincy for the first time in his international career and led the team to a 2–1 loss, which resulted in its elimination from the competition.<ref name="Alou Diarra, bon capitaine">{{Cite web | url = http://www.sport.fr/football/l-equipe-de-france-de-football-alou-diarra-bon-capitaine-199078.shtm | publisher = Football365 | title = Alou Diarra, bon capitaine? | date = 11 October 2010 | access-date = 4 March 2011 | language = fr | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120314081442/http://www.sport.fr/football/l-equipe-de-france-de-football-alou-diarra-bon-capitaine-199078.shtm | archive-date = 14 March 2012 | url-status = dead | df = dmy-all }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.girondins.com/diarra-capitaine-en-bleu.html | publisher = [[FC Girondins de Bordeaux]] | title = Diarra&nbsp;– Capitaine en bleu | date = 22 June 2010 | access-date = 3 March 2011 | language = fr | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100627042007/http://www.girondins.com/diarra-capitaine-en-bleu.html | archive-date = 27 June 2010 | df = dmy-all }}</ref>

Diarra was one of several players retained by incoming coach [[Laurent Blanc]], his former manager. After missing the August 2010 friendly due to suspension, he returned to the team in September playing the entire match in 2–0 wins over both Bosnia and Herzegovina and [[Romania national football team|Romania]]. Diarra served as captain in both matches.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.rmc.fr/editorial/125426/a-diarra-capitaine-valbuena-titulaire/ | publisher=[[Radio Monte Carlo|RMC Sport]] | title = A. Diarra capitaine, Valbuena titulaire |date = 7 September 2010 | access-date =4 March 2011 | language = fr}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.leparisien.fr/sports/equipe-france-football/france-roumanie-alou-diarra-capitaine-gourcuff-sur-le-banc-09-10-2010-1102848.php |work=Le Parisien |location=France | title = Alou Diarra capitaine, Gourcuff sur le banc |date = 9 October 2010 | access-date =4 March 2011 | language = fr}}</ref> On 9 February 2011, he captained the team for the fifth time in his career in their 1–0 victory over [[Brazil national football team|Brazil]].<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.leparisien.fr/sports/equipe-france-football/en-direct-france-bresil-alou-diarra-capitaine-09-02-2011-1307687.php | work = Le Parisien | location = France | title = France&nbsp;– Brésil: Alou Diarra capitaine | date = 9 February 2011 | access-date = 4 March 2011 | language = fr | archive-date = 12 February 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110212194437/http://www.leparisien.fr/sports/equipe-france-football/en-direct-france-bresil-alou-diarra-capitaine-09-02-2011-1307687.php | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/878539/win-over-brazil-pleases-france-coach-laurent-blanc?cc=5901 | publisher = [[ESPN]] | title = Win over Brazil pleases Blanc | date = 10 February 2011 | access-date = 4 March 2011 | archive-date = 7 October 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20111007201857/http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/878539/win-over-brazil-pleases-france-coach-laurent-blanc?cc=5901 | url-status = dead }}</ref>

== Coaching career ==
In 2018, Diarra joined French club [[RC Lens|Lens]] as an assistant coach for the club's under-19 side. He eventually became an assistant for the reserve team, and in 2020, for the club's senior team coached by [[Franck Haise]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=3 June 2022 |title=Alou Diarra quitte le RC Lens |url=https://www.lequipe.fr/Football/Actualites/Alou-diarra-quitte-le-rc-lens/1336721 |access-date=26 June 2022 |website=[[L'Équipe]] |language=fr}}</ref> Diarra left Lens in 2022, joining [[ES Troyes AC|Troyes]] as manager of the under-19 side in the [[Championnat National U19]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 June 2022 |title=Merci Alou ! |url=https://www.rclens.fr/fr/news/d%C3%A9part-alou-diarra-rclens-20220617 |access-date=26 June 2022 |publisher=[[RC Lens]] |language=fr}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 June 2022 |title=Alou Diarra nommé entraîneur des U19 Nationaux ! |url=https://www.estac.fr/actualites/21491/alou-diarra-nomme-entraineur-des-u19-nationaux.html |access-date=26 June 2022 |publisher=[[ES Troyes AC]] |language=fr}}</ref> On 26 June 2025, Diarra was appointed assistant manager to [[Julien Stéphan]] at [[EFL Championship|Championship]] side [[Queens Park Rangers F.C.|Queens Park Rangers]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.qpr.co.uk/|title=Official website of Queens Park Rangers for the latest news from Loftus Road|first=QPR|last=FC|website=QPR FC}}</ref>

== Career statistics ==

=== International ===
:Source:<ref>{{cite web |title=Alou Diarra |url=https://www.fff.fr/equipes-de-france/tous-les-joueurs/fiche-joueur/328-alou-diarra |website=Fédération Française de Football |access-date=10 March 2020 |language=fr}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;"
|-
!National team!!Season!!Apps!!Goals !! Assists
|-
|rowspan="8"|[[France national football team|France]]
|2004–05||3||0||0
|-
||2005–06||8||0||0
|-
||2006–07||1||0||0
|-
||2007–08||1||0||0
|-
||2008–09||7||0||0
|-
||[[2009–10 in French football|2009–10]]||6||0||0
|-
||[[2010–11 in French football|2010–11]]||8||0||0
|-
||[[2011–12 in French football|2011–12]]||10||0||0
|-
!colspan="2"|Total!!44!!0||0
|}

==Honours==
'''Lens'''
*[[UEFA Intertoto Cup]]: [[2005 UEFA Intertoto Cup|2005]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.uefa.com/competitions/IntertotoCup/FixturesResults/Round=2188/Match=81579/Report=LU.html |title=Lens 3-1 Cluj (Aggregate: 4 – 2)|publisher=[[UEFA]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070614205426/http://www.uefa.com/competitions/IntertotoCup/FixturesResults/Round=2188/Match=81579/Report=LU.html|access-date=14 June 2020|archive-date=14 June 2007}}</ref>

'''Lyon'''
*[[Ligue 1]]: [[2006–07 Ligue 1|2006–07]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bdfutbol.com/en/t/t2006-074017.html|title=Olympique Lyonnais 2006–07|publisher=bdfutbol.com|access-date=11 October 2020}}</ref>

'''Bordeaux'''
*Ligue 1: [[2008–09 Ligue 1|2008–09]]<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bdfutbol.com/en//t/t2008-094012.html |title=Girondins de Bordeaux 2008-09 |publisher=bdfutbol.com |access-date=28 February 2021}}</ref>
*[[Trophée des Champions]]: [[2008 Trophée des Champions|2008]], [[2009 Trophée des Champions|2009]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://rmcsport.bfmtv.com/football/bordeaux-lyon-les-compos_AN-200808020012.html |title=BORDEAUX – LYON : LES COMPOS |publisher=rmcsport.bfmtv.com |access-date=1 March 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.goal.com/fr/news/1729/france/2009/07/25/1403535/troph%C3%A9e-des-champions-bordeaux-guingamp-les-compos |title=Trophée des champions - Bordeaux-Guingamp, les compos |publisher=goal.com|access-date=1 March 2021 }}</ref>

'''Marseille'''
*[[Coupe de la Ligue]]: [[2011–12 Coupe de la Ligue|2011–12]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.goal.com/fr/news/1728/coupe-de-la-ligue/2012/04/13/3034674/cdl-lyon-marseille-les-cl%C3%A9s-du-match|title=CdL - Lyon - Marseille, les clés du match|publisher=goal.com |access-date=1 March 2021 }}</ref>
*Trophée des Champions: [[2011 Trophée des Champions|2011]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.lequipe.fr/Football/match-direct/trophee-des-champions/2011/lille-om-live/219943 |title=Résultat et résumé Lille - Marseille, Trophée des Champions, Trophée des Champions, Mercredi 27 Juillet 2011 |publisher=lequipe.fr|access-date=28 February 2021 }}</ref>

'''France'''
*[[FIFA World Cup]] runner-up: [[2006 FIFA World Cup|2006]]

==See also==
* [[Sub-Saharan African community of Paris]]

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
{{Commons category}}
* {{FFF player}}
* {{UEFA player}}
* {{FIFA player}}

{{Navboxes
| title = France squads
| bg = #002395
| fg = white
| bordercolor = #ED2939
| list1 = 
{{France squad 2006 FIFA World Cup}}
{{France squad 2010 FIFA World Cup}}
{{France squad UEFA Euro 2012}}
}}
{{ES Troyes AC managers}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Diarra, Alou}}
[[Category:1981 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Footballers from Villepinte, Seine-Saint-Denis]]
[[Category:French men's footballers]]
[[Category:Men's association football midfielders]]
[[Category:Louhans-Cuiseaux FC players]]
[[Category:Le Havre AC players]]
[[Category:FC Bayern Munich II players]]
[[Category:FC Bayern Munich footballers]]
[[Category:Liverpool F.C. players]]
[[Category:SC Bastia players]]
[[Category:RC Lens players]]
[[Category:Olympique Lyonnais players]]
[[Category:FC Girondins de Bordeaux players]]
[[Category:Olympique de Marseille players]]
[[Category:West Ham United F.C. players]]
[[Category:Stade Rennais FC players]]
[[Category:Charlton Athletic F.C. players]]
[[Category:AS Nancy Lorraine players]]
[[Category:Ligue 1 players]]
[[Category:Ligue 2 players]]
[[Category:Premier League players]]
[[Category:France men's youth international footballers]]
[[Category:France men's under-21 international footballers]]
[[Category:France men's international footballers]]
[[Category:2006 FIFA World Cup players]]
[[Category:2010 FIFA World Cup players]]
[[Category:UEFA Euro 2012 players]]
[[Category:French expatriate men's footballers]]
[[Category:French expatriate sportspeople in England]]
[[Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Germany]]
[[Category:Expatriate men's footballers in England]]
[[Category:French expatriate sportspeople in Germany]]
[[Category:French football managers]]
[[Category:French football coaches]]
[[Category:RC Lens non-playing staff]]
[[Category:ES Troyes AC non-playing staff]]
[[Category:English Football League players]]
[[Category:Black French sportspeople]]
[[Category:French sportspeople of Malian descent]]
[[Category:21st-century French sportsmen]]