Gambiaj.com – (Dakar, Senegal) – In a surprising turn of events, Sadio Mané, Senegal’s most celebrated footballer, will not be part of the national team for the upcoming international friendlies against Ireland and England scheduled for June 6 and 10. The announcement has sent shockwaves across Senegalese football fans and pundits alike, especially as the decision reportedly came from the player himself.

Senegal’s head coach, Pape Thiaw, unveiled the 26-man squad set to participate in the prestigious matches.

The list features several of the country’s top talents, including Edouard Mendy, Kalidou Koulibaly, Moussa Niakhaté, Pape Gueye, Ismaïla Sarr, and Nicolas Jackson. However, the absence of Mané—the talismanic figure who has long symbolized the strength and aspirations of the Lions of Téranga—was unmistakable.

When pressed on the matter during a press conference, Coach Thiaw clarified that Mané’s omission was not due to technical or tactical decisions.

“It is a personal decision that belongs to him. As a coach, I respect it. The most important thing is the collective and building a team with the players available,” Thiaw said.

The unexpected move comes amid growing scrutiny over Mané’s recent performances in the national jersey, with some critics suggesting the forward has not lived up to expectations in recent outings.

While speculation swirls around whether this signals a temporary break or a potential step toward international retirement at age 33, the player has yet to issue a public statement.

For now, Senegalese fans are left grappling with questions about the future of one of their greatest football icons. Whether this marks the beginning of the end for Mané’s international career or merely a pause remains to be seen.