Mbaye Niang eyes national team return after Wydad Casablanca move
Senegalese striker Mbaye Niang, who recently signed with Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca, has outlined his ambitious goals following his move to the club. After leaving Empoli as a free agent, Niang views this next step in his career as a prime opportunity to reestablish himself on the African football scene and earn his way back into the Senegal national team.
The former AC Milan forward, who has been absent from the Senegalese squad since 2020, is determined to use his time at Wydad to showcase his abilities and catch the eye of national team coach Aliou Cissé.
Niang, 28, sees his new chapter in Casablanca as not only a chance to make an impact at one of Africa’s most prestigious clubs but also as a potential stepping stone towards reclaiming his place among the Lions of Teranga.
Niang did not mince words when speaking about his personal aspirations. “It’s up to me to perform… It’s up to me to work,” said Niang, acknowledging that his return to international duty will depend entirely on his performances on the pitch.
Known for his athleticism and attacking flair, Niang is confident that with hard work and dedication, he can contribute significantly to Wydad’s success and, in turn, attract the attention of the Senegalese national team selectors.
Since parting ways with Empoli, where he struggled to find consistent form, Niang has been searching for the right environment to reignite his career.
His decision to join Wydad AC, a club with a rich history and a passionate fanbase, could provide the platform he needs to demonstrate his worth once more.
The Moroccan side, which regularly competes at the highest levels in African competitions, offers Niang the competitive stage he desires.
At Wydad, Niang is expected to play a crucial role in their domestic and continental campaigns.
The club’s ambitious nature aligns with Niang’s personal targets, as both player and team seek success on multiple fronts. With the CAF Champions League and Moroccan Botola Pro League titles in sight, the pressure will be on Niang to deliver match-winning performances.
Niang’s hunger for success and his clear objectives make this partnership between him and Wydad one to watch closely. Should he succeed in leading the club to silverware, a call-up to Senegal’s national team may soon follow.
For now, however, Niang remains focused on the task at hand: proving his value and earning his way back into the spotlight, both in Africa and on the international stage.
As Niang embarks on this new journey, his resolve is evident. By excelling at Wydad Casablanca, the forward hopes to reinvigorate his career and ultimately force his way back into the plans of Senegal coach Aliou Cissé.
For Niang, the path forward is clear—perform consistently, work relentlessly, and seize the opportunity to return to where he believes he belongs: with the national team.