Toulon Tournament: Mali U21 squad revealed

The Malian Football Federation has unveiled its U21 squad for the prestigious Maurice-Revello Tournament, formerly known as the Toulon Tournament. This promising selection blends golden youth from the U17 World Cup, dual nationals enticed by the sporting project, and talents trained at renowned European clubs.

A showcase for the U17 generation

Eight players from the squad that finished third at the last U17 World Cup will travel to the south of France starting May 30.

Among them is Barcelona prodigy Ibrahim Diarra, a Youth League final hero with a brace, as well as Sekou Koné (Manchester United), Mahamoud Barry (Villarreal), and Mamadou Doumbia (Watford), who is already a senior international.

Ten dual nationals strengthen the squad

Another key feature: the inclusion of ten dual nationals, such as Oumar Kalifa Pona (Angers), a former French U17 international, and Emile Doucouré (Beerschot), who played for Belgium U18.

At the back, profiles like Souleymane Sagnan (Lens) and Dan Sinaté (Angers) exemplify this dynamic. The attack will be spearheaded by Abdoulaye Niakaté (Caen), Gaoussou Diakité (RB Salzburg), and Wilson Samaké (Rennes).

The U21 Aiglons' schedule:

Mali vs Panama – June 3 (12:00 GMT)

Mali vs France – June 6 (15:30 GMT)

Mali vs Saudi Arabia – June 9 (12:00 GMT)

Below is the full Mali U21 squad for the Toulon Tournament:

Amine Jomni |

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African football writer and sports journalist covering football news, stories and insights while sharing his expertise with fans across the continent.