Sadio Mané has not been included in Senegal coach Patrick Vieira’s first squad, but the veteran forward remains part of the Lions of Teranga’s plans.
Vieira confirmed that Mané’s absence is due to a physical problem rather than a decision to end his international career.
The 34-year-old Al-Nassr striker has not formally announced his retirement from Senegal duty, despite speculation about his future following the 2026 World Cup.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Vieira moved to clarify the situation and said Mané should return for Senegal’s next training camp once he has recovered.
“Sadio Mané has a physical problem, which is the reason for his absence, but he will be there for the next training camp.”
Vieira also said he had spoken directly with Mané by telephone about the situation.
The former Liverpool forward is therefore still available for selection and is expected to return to the national team when the next international break arrives, provided he has recovered from his muscle injury.
Mané’s omission comes as Senegal continue their preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, with the West African side looking to move forward under their new coach.
For now, the immediate priority for Mané is recovering from his physical problem before returning to international duty.
The veteran forward continues to play an important role for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.
During the 2025-26 season, Mané made 35 appearances in all competitions for the Saudi club, scoring 13 goals and providing nine assists.
He has also maintained a productive start to the 2026-27 campaign.
The Senegal international has made nine appearances in all competitions so far, scoring twice and registering three assists.
In the league alone, he has scored two goals and provided two assists in seven matches.
Those figures underline Mané’s continued involvement at club level despite being 34 and entering another stage of his career.
His performances have also earned individual recognition.
Mané has been included among the 30 nominees for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, marking the fifth time he has been shortlisted for the prestigious award.
His latest nomination adds to a long record of recognition at the highest level of football.
Mané came closest to winning the award in 2022, when he finished second.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled to take place in London on 26 October.
Before then, however, Mané’s focus will be on his recovery and a potential return to the Senegal squad.
His continued availability will be significant for Vieira as the new coach begins shaping his plans for the Lions of Teranga.
The decision not to select Mané for the first squad could have raised questions about whether the veteran had reached the end of his international career.
Vieira’s explanation has instead provided a different picture.
The absence is temporary and linked to Mané’s physical condition, while the player remains available to represent Senegal.
