Echo: He was criticized for his poor condition, and Mane decided not to participate in the friendly match with England

The Liverpool Echo reported that due to his recent poor condition, Mane decided not to participate in the friendly match between Senegal and England.

33-year-old Mane suffered violent criticism and cyber violence after the World Cup qualifiers against Sultan and Togo in March. He finally made the decision disheartened and was allowed to miss England.

Currently playing for Riyadh victory, Mane has also had doubts about the prospects of his club. It is reported that the Saudi team has told him that he can find a new owner this summer.

The Senegal head coach said: "This is Mane's personal decision, and I respect it as a coach. Mane is crucial to us, but I am not just one player, but 26 players, and the team is the core. I have formed a lineup that is willing to fight for the national team's jersey."

Senegal temporarily ranked second in the group in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, one point behind Democratic Congo. Mane admitted: "There are too much talk about me. I may be the most criticized player in Senegal. I don't care, everyone has a say. But besides criticizing me, there are more important things to do, what can I get by doing this?"

Senegal Football Association Chairman Augustine Sangor could not hide his disappointment: "It is of course heartbreaking. Everyone understands the value of Mane, but perhaps it is a blessing in disguise for him and the team. We look forward to his return at his best, but this is also a good opportunity for others to prove themselves. The key is that Mane can be prepared when the competition comes."