Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) intensifies, football enthusiasts are eager to decipher the final squad that Senegal’s head coach, Aliou Cissé, will unveil for the tournament in Ivory Coast. While the framework of the group has become familiar, uncertainties persist, leaving fans in suspense about which players will make the cut.
Aliou Cissé, the celebrated coach of the reigning African champions, is known for his commitment to squad consistency, a trait that has contributed to the team’s success in recent years.
Despite introducing occasional newcomers and fresh talents into the squad, Cissé maintains a core group, showcasing his faith in stability.
The coach, often referred to as “El Tactico,” has forged a reputation for making well-thought-out selections, blending experienced campaigners with versatile players ready to adapt to various scenarios.
Since taking charge of the national team in March 2015, Cissé has demonstrated a preference for continuity, keeping the backbone of his team intact even in the face of challenges.
Analyzing Cissé’s recent call-ups offers insights into potential selections for the AFCON 2023.
In addition to the established African champions like Jakobs, Jackson, Iliman, and Niakhaté, it appears that the likes of Youssouf Sabaly and Nampalys Mendy, currently grappling with injuries, may face uncertainties. While the odds favor their inclusion, Cissé, known for his cautious approach, may opt for alternatives to ensure a robust and fit squad.
A keen observer may note the return of some African champions who were initially left out but found their names in the preliminary list of 55 players.
Pape Abou Cissé, Moustapha Name, and Mame Baba Thiam, among others, feature in this intriguing pre-list, sparking speculation about potential surprises in the final squad.
Additionally, emerging talents from the local and U20 categories, such as Pape Amadou Diallo, Pape Amadou Sy, and Ousmane Diouf, are also in contention, with the potential to emulate the surprise inclusion of Alioune Badara Faty in the last AFCON 2022.
As Senegal prepares to defend its AFCON title, the final squad announcement by Aliou Cissé has become an eagerly anticipated event, with football enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the unveiling of the Lions set to roar in Ivory Coast.
