Senegal manager Pape Thiaw has publicly urged Sadio Mane to reconsider his decision to retire from international football after the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final. The 33-year-old forward, who will lead the Teranga Lions against Morocco on Sunday, has confirmed that the match will be his last for his country.
Thiaw, speaking to ESPN, expressed his strong desire for Mane to continue. 'The country is not in agreement [with his decision], and I am not in agreement,' he said. 'We want to keep him as long as possible. He represents Africa, the world, and when we say it's his decision, it doesn't just belong to him, he belongs to the people of Senegal, and they want to see him carry on.'
The coach highlighted Mane's impact beyond football, praising his humility and dedication. 'Considering his example, we need such people like this in the country,' Thiaw added. 'He gives lessons, his humility, his education, how he gives his sweat for Senegal. He gave his life for this team to get to the World Cup in 2022, he gave his life to win the first AFCON and get the first star.'
Midfielder Pape Gueye also appealed to Mane, saying: 'We're going to try to keep him with us a bit longer, because he still has some great years to give. I heard what he said and we'll see what he decides to do. But we really want him to stay with us for many more years.'
Mane, a 125-time international with 53 goals, has expressed his desire to end his international career on a high. After the semi-final win against Egypt, he said: 'A final is meant to be won. I will be very happy to play my last AFCON final, to enjoy it and to make my country win.'
