AJ Auxerre forward Lassine Sinayoko has found himself at the center of heated discussions in Malian football circles following his prolonged absence from recent national team call-ups.
Sinayoko, who emerged as one of Mali’s key players during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), was instrumental in the team’s campaign, finishing as their top scorer with three goals in four matches.
Despite these contributions, newly appointed coach Tom Saintfiet has largely overlooked him since taking charge, calling him up only once in the past few months.
The 24-year-old, who made his international debut against Uganda in September 2021, has earned 20 caps and scored six goals for the Eagles.
However, his recent exclusion from Mali’s squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers has raised questions among fans and pundits alike.
Questions over commitment
Addressing the media before Mali’s recent World Cup qualifying matches against the Comoros (3-0 win) and the Central African Republic (0-0 draw), Saintfiet shed light on Sinayoko’s absence.
The Belgian coach suggested that the forward had repeatedly turned down national team call-ups, citing injuries that he deemed questionable.
“He found several excuses to leave the national team and focus on his club. It’s a question of attitude and commitment. But the doors to the national team are not closed to him,” Saintfiet stated.
The coach’s remarks have fueled speculation over the true reasons behind Sinayoko’s omission, with some suggesting a possible breakdown in communication between the player and the coaching staff.
Steps toward reconciliation
In response to the growing controversy, Malian football authorities have taken steps to mend relations with Sinayoko.
A delegation led by Sylvain Diakité, the first vice-president of the Malian Football Federation (FEMAFOOT), and Eagles general manager Samba Sow, traveled to France to meet with the striker at his club in Auxerre.
The discussions appear to have yielded positive results.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) by Les Aigles du Mali, it was confirmed that Sinayoko remains committed to the national team and is ready to accept future call-ups.
“Lassine Sinayoko said he was ready and motivated to respond positively to all his future summons,” the statement read.
With Mali aiming to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup, the potential return of their top scorer from the last AFCON could provide a much-needed boost.
If the reconciliation efforts bear fruit, Sinayoko could be back in the Eagles squad as early as the next international break.
Sylvain Diakite et Samba Sow sont partis échanger avec Lassine Sinayoko du côté d’Auxerre 👀
Le joueur s’est dit prêt et motivé à répondre positivement à toutes ses futures convocations si il est convoqué 🇲🇱 pic.twitter.com/dio0hyuPti
— Les Aigles Du Mali 🇲🇱🦅 (@AiglesDuMali_) March 29, 2025
