National teammate Cheikhou Kouyaté defends Sadio Mané amid criticism

Sadio Mané has faced a wave of criticism following Senegal’s recent match against Sudan, but his national teammate Cheikhou Kouyaté has come to his defense, urging greater respect for the forward’s contributions to the team.

Mané, widely regarded as the face of Senegalese football, has been the subject of intense scrutiny on social media after a below-par performance.

However, Kouyaté, a veteran of the national squad, has strongly condemned the backlash, calling for appreciation rather than hostility toward players who have long served the team.

“The Senegalese don’t appreciate longevity”

Speaking on the TFM program Quartier Général, Kouyaté addressed what he sees as a pattern of disregard for experienced players in Senegalese football.

????Sadio Mané peut compter sur le soutien de son capitaine. Cheikhou Kouyaté exige plus de respect et de considération pour Nianthio !

???????? ???? https://t.co/Gt5nI5DnJs pic.twitter.com/qGhvd4i5lZ

— Tout’Foot (@tout_foot_) March 28, 2025

The former Nottingham Forest midfielder believes that long-serving players are often unfairly targeted once their performances dip.

“The Senegalese don’t like someone who stays in their position for long. An experienced player must be accompanied by a young player,” Kouyaté stated, using Idrissa Gana Gueye, now 35, as an example of a seasoned professional who continues to provide valuable experience to younger squad members.

He emphasized the importance of respecting senior players and ensuring they are supported as they transition into mentorship roles within the team.

“He almost lost his life for Senegal”

Kouyaté also reminded critics of Mané’s commitment to Senegal, recalling a harrowing moment during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations.

In a match against Cape Verde, Mané suffered a heavy collision with the opposing goalkeeper, yet remained on the pitch to score a crucial goal before being forced off due to injury.

“What I saw with Sadio Mané is that they are abusing him. We have to protect him. Certain things must be done with respect. He almost lost his life for Senegal,” Kouyaté declared, visibly frustrated by the criticism directed at his teammate.

He acknowledged that scrutiny is inevitable in professional football but insisted that it should remain constructive and respectful.

Équipe Nationale – Face aux critiques, Cheikhou Kouyate défend Sadio Mané « Il a failli perdre sa vie pour le Sénégal… »
➡️ https://t.co/9ewmzOLyxr pic.twitter.com/chhLrfqkw0

— wiwsport (@wiwsport) March 28, 2025

The midfielder urged supporters to recognize the sacrifices made by players like Mané, who have been instrumental in the national team’s success over the years.

Rather than tearing down experienced players, Kouyaté believes fans and the media should foster a culture that values their leadership and encourages their role in shaping the next generation of Senegalese footballers.