Sadio Mane has penned a heartfelt message to his Senegalese teammates on his socials before the African champions clash against the ‘Oranje’ in their World Cup group A opener this Monday.
Injured while playing for the Bavarians a fortnight ago and subsequently ruled out of the biggest football show-piece, Mane has acknowledged all the goodwill messages and support.
‘Lots of people have written messages of support after my injury. Thank God the surgery conducted in the middle of last week went well.’
Sadio Mane underwent successful surgery in Innsbruck on Thursday. During the operation, a tendon was reattached to the head of his right fibula, as the forward is set to begin his rehab in Munich in the next few days.
One of the most loved African players went on: ‘i want to take this opportunity to thank you all and to express my gratitude.
‘This Monday, our dear country will compete in the World Cup, Qatar 2022. I am sure that the Lions will approach all matches as a final. I am also convinced that all Senegalese will be in front of the screen to support and encourage our national team. I am convinced that my teammates will fight like men as they have always done,’
ended the former Liverpool man.
The man who showed nerves of steel to convert winning penalties in Senegal’s first AFCON win earlier this year and en route to the World Cup – against Egypt in both occasions will be missed, as coach Aliou Cisse has admitted.
Sadio is Senegal’s recordman, as he holds the record for his country’s leading goal scorer. Aliou Cisse’ will have to now place his chip on the shoulders of Watford’s Ismaila Sarr, Krepin Diatta and Villarreal’s Michael Jackson – for some fire power upfront.
Senegal are up against the Netherlands this Monday Nov. 21. They will complete their last two group A matches against hosts Qatar on Nov. 25, and put a cap in the first round against Ecuador on Nov. 29.
