Senegal’s national team coach Souleymane Diallo has named a 23-man squad to kick-start preparations for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), set to take place across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda in August.
The reigning CHAN champions are regrouping after a prolonged pause caused by the competition’s postponement.
This latest training camp, scheduled from April 29 to May 1, will be held at the Jules François Bocandé Technical Centre in Toubab Dialaw, and marks the official resumption of Senegal’s campaign to retain their continental crown.
Diallo’s selection reflects a deliberate blend of continuity and evolution. Several familiar names who have consistently featured in recent national team call-ups return to provide experience and leadership.
Alongside them are standout performers from the second half of the domestic league season, whose recent club form has earned them an opportunity to prove themselves on the international stage.
“This group represents a careful balance between established players and those whose recent performances deserve recognition,” said a source close to the technical staff.
“We’re entering a crucial phase where defending the title is both an honour and a challenge.”
The inclusion of in-form talents demonstrates Diallo’s intent to build a competitive side capable of withstanding the pressure of being defending champions.
With CHAN 2025 being hosted across three East African nations, the tournament is expected to be more demanding than ever, especially with the return of countries who missed the last edition and others looking to dethrone Senegal.
Senegal claimed their first CHAN title in 2023 with a hard-fought campaign that showcased the strength of their domestic-based players.
That triumph not only raised expectations but also increased the visibility of local talent on the continent.
Maintaining that standard, however, will require depth, tactical discipline, and squad unity—qualities Diallo and his staff are now working to reinforce.
The camp will involve physical and tactical drills, as well as intrasquad scrimmages, to evaluate the readiness and cohesion of the selected players.
According to sources close to the team, this will be the first of several training phases in the build-up to the tournament.
While the names of the 23 players have not been disclosed publicly at the time of writing, insiders report that selection was based heavily on recent league performances, consistency, and positional needs.
The focus is on identifying players who can slot seamlessly into the existing tactical system while also bringing fresh energy to the squad.
This first gathering is expected to be instrumental in setting the tone for the months ahead, as Senegal looks to replicate and possibly exceed the heights achieved in 2023.
With national pride and continental prestige on the line, the pressure is immense, but Diallo’s composed leadership and strategic planning appear to have put the Lions on the right track.
The countdown to CHAN 2025 has officially begun for the Senegalese team, and with training now underway, all eyes will be on how this new group rises to the challenge of defending their hard-earned title.
