Senegal: We know why Patrick Vieira did not call up Sadio Mané

Sadio Mané is one of the notable absentees from Senegal’s squad for the two-legged tie against Sudan in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

For the second time in a row, Sadio Mané will not join the Senegal national team camp. But his absence has nothing to do with a sporting decision by Patrick Vieira. Speaking at a press conference, the Senegal coach explained the reasons for his withdrawal. “Sadio Mané did receive his call-up. I spoke to him on the phone. He wanted to stay with his family because they are expecting a happy event. He wanted to be with his family, and I accepted his decision,” he said.

Sadio Mané: Is international retirement on the horizon?

Since the disappointing 2026 World Cup, Senegal has seen a wave of international retirements. Chérif Ndiaye called it quits at the end of August, followed by Édouard Mendy in September and then Ismail Jakobs at the end of October. In this context, Sadio Mané’s prolonged absence raises questions. Having already missed Patrick Vieira’s first camp because of physical problems, the former Liverpool player will also miss the two-legged tie against Sudan on November 12 and 16.

This time, family reasons explain his unavailability. Vieira’s comments are reassuring, certainly, but the coach had also sounded optimistic about Jakobs before the player eventually announced his international retirement. At this stage, nothing suggests that Sadio Mané is considering calling time on his international career. A figure of his stature would likely announce such an important decision himself.

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Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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