Middlesbrough manager Kim Hellberg has handed Seny Dieng a fresh opportunity at the Riverside after the goalkeeper returned for pre-season in peak physical condition and with a renewed determination to fight for his place.
Why has Dieng been given another chance?
Dieng looked set to leave Middlesbrough this summer after being frozen out of the squad in the second half of last season. Proposed moves to Hull City and Feyenoord collapsed, leaving him unregistered. However, Hellberg has stayed true to his promise of rewarding players who prove their worth in training. The Senegal international’s improved fitness and work ethic earned him a surprise spot in the Portugal training camp and 45 minutes in Saturday’s 0-0 draw at Celtic, where he made two sharp saves.
What does this mean for Middlesbrough’s goalkeeping options?
Sol Brynn emerged as first-choice last season, but Dieng’s experience and quality-evident in his debut campaign when he was a Player of the Year contender-could reignite the competition. The 29-year-old has not played competitively for Boro since December 2025 after an Achilles injury and surgery. With his contract entering its final year, the club must decide whether to extend his stay or accelerate his exit to make way for a new signing.
What happens next for Dieng?
Hellberg praised Dieng’s commitment, stating, He came back fit and strong. He’s doing everything right in training, and that’s how you earn opportunities. The goalkeeper’s form in the coming weeks will determine if he can reclaim a starting role or if Middlesbrough opt to refresh their goalkeeping department ahead of the new Championship season.
