Why is Sadio Mane not playing for Senegal vs England?
SADIO Mane is not playing for Senegal in the friendly against England at the City TONIGHT!
Here we take a look at why the forward, who plays domestically for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, is missing out on international duty.
1
Sadio Mane is not in the Senegal squad for the friendly against England
Credit: Getty
Why is Sadio Mane not playing?
Despite appearing fully fit and having had a productive season, the former
d.
The official explanation from the coach revealed that
He told a press conference: "It is a personal decision that belongs to Mane — and I respect it as a coach. Sadio is a very important player for us.
read more on sadio Mané
'But I don't coach one player, I coach 26 players, and so the most important thing is the collective.
"I have put together a squad of players who are available and ready to fight with pride for the national jersey.'
It's not something he makes a habit out of —
Many believe the winger's withdrawal was influenced by a wave of criticism following Senegal's recent
Most read in Football
Despite his long-standing status as a national hero, Mane faced scrutiny from some fans over his performances.
Speaking candidly after the games, Mane said: 'A lot is said about me and I think I'm the most criticised player in Senegal.
Shocking moment fuming Sadio Mane grabs rival by THROAT as commentator blasts 'very foolish' ex-Liverpool star
"I don't have a problem with it. Everyone is free to give their opinion.
"
But there must be better things to do than criticise Sadio
Man
e. What does it even get you?"
Another significant factor behind Mane's absence could be his religious commitment.
While no official reason for his absence was provided, reports confirmed that he was visiting Mina, Saudi Arabia, to perform the Hajj pilgrimage — one of the five fundamental pillars of Islam.
The spiritual journey is a deeply personal and important religious duty.
This might explain why Mane would choose to prioritise it over participating in the June international fixtures, if that were the case.
So Mane's absence from the Senegal squad against England seems to be down to a combination of personal reasons.
These include a possible need to step back from international duties amid public criticism, while also potentially taking time to fulfil a major religious obligation.
How to watch England vs Senegal
The match will kick-off at 7.45pm BST
The clash will be broadcast live on
ITV1
You can live stream the friendly for FREE via the ITVX
Alternatively, you can keep up to date with all the action by following SunSport's live blog
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