Why Won’t Sadio Mané Play for Senegal in the 2027 AFCON Qualifiers? Patrick Vieira Reveals the Reason

Sadio Mané’s absence from Senegal’s squad for the matches against Sudan raised questions. Patrick Vieira clarified the situation and explained what happened with the forward.

Sadio Mané, Senegal’s Biggest Absence

The Senegal squad announcement for the upcoming matches against Sudan in the 2027 AFCON Qualifiers featured one notable omission: Sadio Mané will not join the Lions of Teranga for this double matchday.

The decision came as a surprise, as the Al-Nassr forward remains one of the team's leading figures and has enjoyed a strong club season. His name was expected to feature in Patrick Vieira's squad, making his absence a source of questions about his situation with the national team.

📺 Watch The AFCON 2027 Qualifier LIVE on beIN SPORTS!

Patrick Vieira Reveals Why Sadio Mané Was Left Out

The explanation came directly from the national team coach. Sadio Mané did receive a call-up, but he asked for permission to stay home and be with his family as they prepare to welcome a new addition. Vieira confirmed that he spoke directly with the player and respected his decision.

"I spoke to Sadio on the phone. He received the call-up, but he wanted to stay home because he is expecting a new addition to the family," the coach explained during his squad announcement, according to his comments to the media.

Therefore, the former Liverpool forward's absence is not the result of a sporting decision, an injury, or a conflict with the coaching staff. It is a personal choice that the Senegal manager decided to respect.

Is Sadio Mané Considering Retirement From Senegal?

Mané's absence comes at a particular moment for Senegal, which has recently seen several players announce their international retirements. Chérif Ndiaye, Édouard Mendy, and Ismail Jakobs have all brought their respective national team careers to an end, raising questions about the future of some of the squad's key figures.

However, after missing the previous international camp due to physical problems, there is no indication that Mané is considering retiring from Senegal duty. This time, his absence is family-related. Vieira also gave no indication of a breakdown in his relationship with the forward, who remains an important part of the team.

Senegal Will Face Sudan Without Its Biggest Star

The Lions of Teranga will face Sudan twice, with matches scheduled for November 12 and 16, in Matchdays 3 and 4 of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.

Without Mané, Vieira will have to turn to other attacking options, including Nicolas Jackson, Iliman Ndiaye, and Boulaye Dia. The squad also features new faces who will have an opportunity to earn their place in the team. Senegal will look to collect important points on its road to the tournament, which will be hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, while hoping to have one of its biggest stars back for future international commitments.