Crystal Palace boss confirms Ismaïla Sarr set for Senegal AFCON 2025 call-up

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner confirms that Ismaïla Sarr will join Senegal for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, ending weeks of uncertainty about the winger’s availability for the tournament in Morocco.

Glasner addresses the issue during his Thursday press conference and states clearly that the Senegalese technical staff will now oversee the player’s return to full competition.

Sarr’s situation worried Senegal supporters after he limped off at Selhurst Park on 30 November during Palace’s 2–1 loss to Manchester United.

He left the pitch after 38 minutes with a hamstring problem and immediately feared the injury might threaten his AFCON plans.

He shifted his focus toward recovery, while the national team monitored developments closely.

Glasner’s latest comments now offer the strongest indication that the winger, who has scored 18 goals and delivered 8 assists in 76 national-team appearances, will indeed travel to Morocco.

Glasner spoke again on the matter on the eve of Crystal Palace’s Conference League fixture against Shelbourne FC.

Journalists pressed him for clarity on Sarr’s physical condition and his potential involvement in upcoming matches.

He ruled out a return against Manchester City on Sunday and stressed that the player must next report to Senegal’s staff for further examinations.

Glasner explained his position without hesitation.
“Ismaïla Sarr is unlikely to be available for the match against Manchester City.

I think he will participate in the AFCON because the Federation wants to assess him.

Every nation has the right to evaluate its players. I expect him to join the squad, and we will see what happens next,” he said.

The Crystal Palace manager maintains confidence that Senegal will take responsibility for the final stage of Sarr’s assessment.

His words bring relief to Senegal fans, who expect the winger to strengthen the Lions of Teranga as they prepare for the continental competition from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.

Sarr now stands on the verge of joining his national teammates, with Senegal ready to determine his match fitness and integrate him into preparations for the tournament.