AFCON 2025: Ibrahim Mbaye set for delayed Senegal arrival after PSG Intercontinental Cup call

Ibrahim Mbaye will report late to Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations camp after being selected by Paris Saint-Germain for Wednesday’s Intercontinental Cup final against Flamengo in Doha.

The 17-year-old winger remains part of PSG’s plans for the high-profile fixture, a decision confirmed by head coach Luis Enrique following the French champions’ narrow 3-2 win over Metz on Saturday evening.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, the Spanish coach revealed that Mbaye would travel with the squad, a decision that was formally ratified when PSG released their 22-man list on Sunday.

Mbaye’s inclusion inevitably affects his immediate availability for the Senegal national team, who are finalising preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Under FIFA regulations, clubs are normally required to release players by December 15.

However, PSG reached an agreement with the Senegalese Football Federation that allows Mbaye to remain with the Paris side until December 17 in order to contest the final.

As a result, the teenager will miss part of the Lions’ early gathering.

He will not take part in the official presentation of the national flag to Pape Thiaw’s squad, an important ceremonial moment scheduled for Wednesday.

Instead, Mbaye is expected to link up with the national team on Thursday, one day before their departure for Tangier, where the final phase of their AFCON preparations will take place.

For Senegal, the arrangement reflects a balance between respecting club commitments and managing the integration of a young player at his first major international tournament.

Mbaye’s call-up has already been viewed as a significant milestone, underlining his rapid progression within PSG’s youth ranks and his growing presence on the international stage.

From PSG’s perspective, the decision highlights the confidence placed in the winger despite his age.

Mbaye’s inclusion for the Intercontinental Cup final places him among a select group trusted for a global showpiece, reinforcing his status as one of the club’s most promising emerging talents.

While his delayed arrival slightly alters Senegal’s early schedule, there is no indication of concern within the camp.

Mbaye is expected to slot into preparations swiftly once he joins, with the technical staff mindful of managing his workload following travel from Doha.

The situation serves as a reminder of the increasingly complex calendar faced by elite players, particularly those balancing club ambitions with international duties.

For Mbaye, the coming days represent a rare opportunity to experience two major stages in quick succession — a global final with PSG, followed by the chance to represent Senegal at Africa’s premier international tournament.