Malick Thiaw has once again been left out of Senegal’s national team squad, as head coach Pape Thiaw confirmed the AC Milan defender’s omission from the upcoming friendlies against Ireland and England.
Despite ongoing discussions between the player and the Senegalese Football Federation, the 22-year-old was not included in the latest call-up, a decision that continues to raise questions among fans and observers, particularly as his name has regularly surfaced as a possible defensive reinforcement for the Lions.
Coach Thiaw, speaking candidly during the squad announcement, provided some clarity on the matter. “In Malick’s case, the necessary steps have been taken.
He is currently in discussions with his club. We can see that he hasn’t been playing much lately… Time will tell,” the national team boss stated.
This brief but telling explanation highlights two parallel truths. First, the Senegalese authorities have made their interest in the player official, initiating contact in an effort to bring him into the national fold.
Second, the defender’s current situation at club level appears to be a decisive factor in delaying any immediate involvement with the national team.
Malick Thiaw, who was born in Germany and plays his club football with AC Milan, has experienced a challenging season. After initially showing promise, his appearances for the Serie A side have become increasingly sporadic.
This lack of regular playing time appears to be influencing the national team’s cautious approach, with coach Thiaw keen to ensure that players arriving in camp are in peak form and actively engaged at club level.
Although his current omission may be disappointing for supporters who had hoped to see the centre-back don Senegal’s colours, the door to the national team remains firmly open.
The national coach’s comments suggest that the situation is fluid and that any future involvement will hinge not only on the player’s form and fitness but also on his ongoing discussions with both club and country.
The case of Malick Thiaw also underscores the complexities often involved in integrating dual-nationality players into African national teams.
While the federation has acted to bring the player into the fold, timing, personal decision-making, and club dynamics all play a significant role in the process.
For now, Senegal is content to proceed without him, though his potential inclusion in future squads cannot be ruled out.
As Senegal prepares for high-profile friendlies against two European sides, the focus will remain on the players selected to represent the nation.
However, Malick Thiaw’s name is unlikely to fade from the conversation anytime soon. Should his situation at AC Milan improve and the ongoing discussions bear fruit, a future call-up could be just a matter of time.
For now, both player and federation appear to be exercising patience—waiting for the right moment when circumstances align for what could be a valuable addition to Senegal’s defensive unit.
