The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations approaches, the football community is holding its breath, with one key player’s inclusion hanging in the balance. National coach Aliou Cissé is set to unveil the squad on Friday, December 29, at 10 am at the Good Rade Hotel, and the absence of striker Boulaye Dia remains a pressing concern .
With 48 hours remaining before the pivotal announcement, the spotlight is firmly on Boulaye Dia, the 27-year-old striker with 26 caps and 5 goals for the national team.
Dia’s participation in the continental tournament faces uncertainty following an injury sustained during a recent clash with his club La Salertina, where they secured a 2-2 draw against AC Milan last Friday.
Diagnostic assessments revealed a medium-sized muscle injury to the left biceps femoris, requiring a recovery period of at least four to five weeks.
This setback has cast doubt on Dia’s dream of representing the Lions at the Africa Cup of Nations.
While the Lions prepare to regroup for the tournament, the looming question revolves around Dia’s presence on the final squad list.
Despite his undeniable talent, the current state of Dia’s physical condition could influence Cissé’s ultimate decision.
The complexities of the decision-making process are further compounded by the medical surveillance of other key players, including Nampalys Mendy (31 years old, 28 caps) and Gana Gueye (34 years old, 104 caps, and 7 goals).
As fans anxiously await the squad announcement, the uncertainty surrounding Dia’s availability adds a layer of intrigue to Cissé’s selection process.
The footballing world is poised to learn the fate of Boulaye Dia and other key players as Senegal prepares for the highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
National coach Mr. Aliou Cissé will give a press conference this Friday, December 29, 2023 to announce the list of lions selected for CAN 2023. It will be from 10:00 a.m. at the Good Rade hotel. #ListeGaindeyi #YoonouCAN2023 #TeamSenegal pic.twitter.com/hyMChfRfS4
— Senegal team (@GaindeYi) December 26, 2023
