El Hadji Diouf has defended Senegal’s senior internationals, including Sadio Mané, amid mounting criticism over recent performances in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The former Liverpool striker voiced his support following scrutiny directed at the national team after an underwhelming outing against Sudan.
Despite a home victory over Togo in Dakar, frustration surrounding the team’s form has continued to grow, with star forward Mané openly sharing his displeasure with journalists after the Togo match.
In a conversation with Senegalese publication Source A, Diouf rejected the criticisms targeting the Lions’ most experienced players, calling the debate around them misguided and unproductive.
He singled out Sadio Mané and Idrissa Gana Gueye as essential pillars of the squad, insisting that their contributions and leadership remain vital to the team’s success.
“It’s a false debate,” Diouf said, dismissing the negativity. He pointed to Édouard Mendy’s journey as a clear example of why premature judgment can be dangerous.
Mendy, who faced fierce criticism early in his international career, went on to prove himself at the highest levels of club football, winning the UEFA Champions League with Chelsea and solidifying his place among the top goalkeepers in the world.
Diouf believes that players like Mané, Mendy, and Gueye bring irreplaceable experience and skill to a team that is still balancing the transition between generations.
“We need to calm things down,” he said, stressing the need for unity within the squad. “There’s a blend of young prospects and seasoned veterans, and we must allow that mix to grow without constant interference.”
He went further to stress the importance of maintaining respect for players who have consistently delivered for the national team.
“We have key players that every team would love to count on,” Diouf said. “These are not just ordinary players; they are leaders, icons, and professionals who carry the team when it matters most. We must preserve them and show them the respect they deserve.”
The remarks come at a tense time for the national team, with fans and pundits expressing concern over inconsistency and lacklustre displays during the qualification campaign.
Mané’s public reaction was seen by many as a sign of the growing pressure felt within the dressing room, especially among senior figures.
Diouf’s intervention appears to be an effort to temper the escalating narrative and shift the focus back to supporting the team as it navigates the crucial qualification period.
With a blend of emerging talent and seasoned players, Senegal remains one of Africa’s strongest footballing nations, but expectations remain high following recent continental and global successes.
As the team prepares for its upcoming fixtures, Diouf’s call for calm may serve as a timely reminder that long-term success depends not just on talent, but also on cohesion, trust, and patience—qualities that cannot flourish amid relentless public scrutiny.
