Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has taken a major step in his preparations for the 2026 World Cup by submitting an expanded provisional list of 55 players to FIFA, one month before the tournament begins in the United States.
The selection provides the first clear indication of Thiaw’s thinking ahead of the competition, with a blend of established internationals, emerging talents and a number of surprise inclusions.
Among the notable names in the squad is defender Malang Sarr, who earned his place after an impressive season with RC Lens.
His inclusion is seen as a strong option for the defensive line, particularly as uncertainty remains over the fitness of captain Kalidou Koulibaly, who is still recovering from injury.
Alongside experienced figures such as Sadio Mané, Édouard Mendy and Idrissa Gana Guèye, Thiaw has also placed emphasis on younger players as part of his long-term planning for the squad.
One of the most unexpected call-ups is Bayern Munich prospect Bara Sapoko Ndiaye, whose creativity and ability to break opposition lines have been highlighted as key attributes that could add a new dimension to Senegal’s midfield.
According to the same source, the coach’s intention is to significantly increase competition for places across all positions ahead of the training camp scheduled to begin on May 25.
The aim is to ensure depth and flexibility in every area of the pitch before final decisions are made.
However, Thiaw now faces the difficult task of reducing the expanded group to a final 26-man squad by May 21, ahead of FIFA’s deadline.
Senegal will head into the tournament placed in Group C, where they will face France, Norway and Iraq in what is expected to be a highly competitive group.
The coming days are expected to be decisive as Thiaw finalises his plans for a tournament in which Senegal will be aiming to make a strong impact on the world stage.
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