Vieira set to name at least three new faces in first Senegal squad

Patrick Vieira is expected to include at least three uncapped players when he announces his first Senegal squad on Friday, with Malang Sarr set for a long-awaited international call-up and major changes likely in goal.

Vieira, appointed on 18 August as Pape Thiaw’s successor, will begin his tenure with three matches. Senegal face Mozambique on 25 September and Ethiopia on 29 September in qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, before meeting Comoros in a friendly in Marseille on 4 October.

The opening international break of Vieira’s reign will give the former France midfielder the opportunity to begin shaping his own squad.

Sarr’s inclusion is now considered almost certain, according to L’Equipe. The 27-year-old Neom defender was born in France to Senegalese parents and previously represented France at Under-21 level.

He had initially turned down approaches from Senegal. His possible arrival ahead of the 2026 World Cup was also said to have caused some tension within the dressing room.

With the timing now tied to the start of a new cycle and Vieira’s appointment, Sarr’s involvement could be easier to accept. Bringing him directly into the squad for a World Cup after he had repeatedly rejected the national team might have proved difficult. He can instead begin this chapter with a clean slate.

The most significant changes, however, could come in goal.

According to Dsports, Ngagne Demba Thiam is expected to receive his first call-up. The 28-year-old Monza goalkeeper would take the place vacated by Edouard Mendy following the former number one’s international retirement.

Match360 reports that Vieira is also likely to select Mamour Ndiaye, the 20-year-old reserve goalkeeper at AS Saint-Etienne, for the first time.

The two newcomers are expected to be joined by Yehvann Diouf. Mory Diaw, who was Pape Thiaw’s number two and started the unfortunate defeat by Belgium at the World Cup, could be left out.

Diouf may benefit most from the reshuffle. The 26-year-old Nice goalkeeper has made only two appearances for Senegal, both in friendlies, with Edouard Mendy’s presence limiting his opportunities.

His start to the season with Nice has included five goals conceded in four matches, but he remains highly regarded within the Senegal set-up.

Supporters also remember Diouf for an unusual moment during the Africa Cup of Nations final, when he protected Edouard Mendy’s towel behind the goal from attempts by Morocco players to take it.

He could now step out of his predecessor’s shadow and compete for the gloves himself.

Sarr, Thiam and Ndiaye would give Vieira at least three first-time selections in Friday’s squad, although further surprises remain possible.