As Senegal gears up to defend its title in the upcoming 34th edition of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, Olympique de Marseille’s Iliman Ndiaye has once again extended a public invitation to his national teammate, Sadio Mané, expressing his desire for the Liverpool star to join the ranks at Canebière.
Arriving in Ivory Coast alongside fellow Marseille players Ismaïla Sarr and Pape Gueye, Ndiaye, at 23 years old, finds himself in a squad brimming with talent.
In a group comprising Cameroon, Guinea, and Gambia, the Lions are intensifying their preparations for the continental tournament.
Ndiaye, the Al-Nassr striker, spoke warmly about the prospect of playing alongside Mané, emphasizing the Liverpool forward’s exceptional skills on the pitch.
He lauded Mané’s ability to ease the pressure and provide valuable guidance, citing the experienced player’s influence on the team.
In a statement captured by La Provence, Ndiaye remarked, “It’s exceptional to play with him; he puts you at ease and gets you out of trouble on the pitch.
He has experience, he gives me a lot of advice. I told him that he could come to OM.”
This is not the first time that Sadio Mané, 31 years old, has been associated with Olympique de Marseille.
Over the past years, the Senegalese forward has openly expressed his affinity for the club, creating speculation about a potential move to the current sixth-placed team in Ligue 1.
As the football world anticipates the unfolding drama of AFCON 2023, Ndiaye’s public plea adds an intriguing layer to Marseille’s narrative, introducing a storyline that transcends national borders and club affiliations.
Whether this appeal will materialize into a transfer remains uncertain, but the prospect of seeing Mané don the Olympique de Marseille jersey would undoubtedly capture the imagination of football enthusiasts worldwide.
