Sadio Mane misses Senegal selection as family arrival takes priority

Sadio Mane has been left out of Senegal’s latest squad after choosing to remain in Saudi Arabia for the birth of his child.

The Al-Nassr winger has not featured for his country since his last appearance at the 2026 World Cup. His omission from the squad announced by French manager Patrick Vieira was unexpected, with his return to the Senegal team widely anticipated.

Reports from Senegal say Mane will miss the upcoming international camp because he wants to be with his wife as they welcome their new baby.

Vieira and his coaching staff understood the 34-year-old’s situation and gave him permission to remain in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, rather than join up with the national team.

Senegal are due to face Sudan in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match on 12 November 2026.

Mane is regarded as one of the most important figures in Senegalese football history, having achieved significant success both individually and with his teams.