Patrick Vieira explains why Sadio Mané is absent for the double-header against Sudan

Sadio Mané’s absence from Senegal’s squad for the next two matches in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers is not due to injury. The Teranga Lions’ manager, Patrick Vieira, has explained why the Al-Nassr forward was not called up.

Senegal will face Sudan on 12 and 16 November, as part of the third and fourth matchdays of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. For these matches, Patrick Vieira has unveiled a 25-man squad that does not include Sadio Mané, despite him having received a call-up.

At a press conference, the French manager revealed that he had spoken to the player, who wished to remain with his family to celebrate a happy occasion. Mané’s absence is a personal decision, which Patrick Vieira has chosen to respect.

“I spoke to Sadio on the phone. He did indeed receive his call-up. However, he is expecting a happy event and has chosen to stay with his family to fully enjoy this important moment. I explained my position to him and I fully accepted his decision. It is a personal and family decision that I fully respect.”