Sadio Mane retirement claim rejected by Senegal boss Patrick Vieira

Patrick Vieira has dismissed speculation that Sadio Mane has retired from international football, saying the Senegal forward has not officially announced his departure from the national team.

The 35-year-old was reportedly expected to end his international career after the World Cup, but Vieira says Mane remains part of his plans.

Mane was left out of Senegal’s squad for the next international break, primarily because of a physical problem.

“Sadio Mane is suffering from an injury, which explains his absence, but he will be back for the next international break,” Vieira said at a news conference.

Mane was reported to have said in an interview at the beginning of July: “From tomorrow, I would be happy to put my experience at the service of the nation, whether within the technical staff, on the coaches’ bench or on the board of directors.”

However, Vieira, 50, said he had spoken to the player, who has won 130 caps for Senegal, and confirmed that Mane had not formally announced his retirement.

Senegal will play Mozambique, Ethiopia and Comoros during the next international break.

Vieira was appointed Senegal manager in August, succeeding Papa Thiaw, who left the role after the World Cup.