Left behind in the race: Guinea-Bissau watch as England and Portugal battle for Mateus Mane

Guinea-Bissau risk being spectators in a high-stakes international tug of war as Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Mateus Mane edges closer to choosing between England and Portugal ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

The 18-year-old, who has Guinean heritage, has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most intriguing teenage prospects, yet the West African nation appears out of the conversation as Europe’s heavyweights circle.

With the tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada looming, Mane’s rapid ascent has intensified interest from both federations, leaving Guinea-Bissau facing the prospect of losing a talent who could have transformed their national project.

Mane’s breakthrough campaign at Wolverhampton Wanderers has not gone unnoticed. Despite Wolves’ struggles at the foot of the table, the teenager has shown flashes of composure beyond his years, scoring twice in 20 league appearances and becoming the club’s youngest Premier League goalscorer.

His development has unfolded against the backdrop of a relegation battle, a scenario that could accelerate his departure should Wolves drop into the Championship. His contract runs until 2029, but financial realities may yet test the club’s resolve if suitors formalise their interest.

According to the BBC, Portugal manager Roberto Martinez is keen to persuade Mane to commit to the 2016 European champions, while England boss Thomas Tuchel is also expected to engage in discussions as the World Cup approaches.

The teenager’s club future is equally compelling, with Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham and Everton monitoring his situation.

For Guinea-Bissau, however, the most pressing concern is not which European giant secures his signature, but whether their heritage link will count for anything in a race increasingly defined by power, prestige and opportunity.