AFCON 2027 qualifiers: Patrick Vieira defends decision to leave out Idrissa Gana Gueye

It is an absence that has not gone unnoticed in Senegal’s squad for the double-header against Sudan as part of the third and fourth matchdays of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

For the first time since 2012, Idrissa Gana Gueye is not among the players called up to the national team. This was a bold decision by Patrick Vieira, who chose not to select the midfielder. At a press conference, the Senegal manager took responsibility for his decision and explained that he had spoken personally with the player before announcing his squad.

“It was my decision. There are young players in this squad. I spoke to Idrissa on the phone and explained the reasons behind my decision. ”

Idrissa Gana Gueye is a key figure in the Senegalese national team. He has played in three FIFA World Cups and helped Senegal win the Africa Cup of Nations. He also holds the record for the most caps with the Lions of Teranga.