Vieira rejects ‘has-been’ label for Senegal veterans Gueye and Koulibaly

Patrick Vieira has defended Senegal’s experienced players Idrissa Gana Gueye and Kalidou Koulibaly, rejecting suggestions that the pair should be regarded as “has-beens”.

The two senior internationals returned to Senegal’s starting line-up for the friendly against Comoros, with captain Koulibaly and vice-captain Gueye again taking prominent roles for the Lions of Teranga.

Koulibaly played the full match, while Gueye was substituted and received an ovation from the supporters at the Cepac Velodrome. Vieira said their contribution to Senegal’s national team deserved greater recognition.

“It is disrespectful towards the players being discussed. You should not repeat that,” said the former midfielder at his post-match news conference.

“We are talking about two players who have made, and continue to make, history for Senegal. We saw the match they were able to produce today. They are players on and off the pitch. It is disrespectful and I do not accept it.”

The pair had not started Senegal’s matches during the qualifying campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, but Vieira explained that their absence was the result of competition within the squad rather than a judgement on their ability.

The Senegal manager said every member of the group had qualities to offer and that selection decisions were made more difficult by the strength of the competition between players.

He also insisted the more experienced members of the squad still had an important role to play, pointing to their performances against Comoros as evidence.

“Based on the match they played today, they showed their experience and their individual qualities, which they placed at the service of the collective,” Vieira said.

“Making a selection is also about competition. The players compete with one another, allowing me to face difficult decisions when I have to make my choices.

“We are talking about two players who have played at the highest level for years. If they are here, it is because they have qualities and values to bring to this squad.”