Senegal Name Final Squad for AFCON as Teen Sensation Mbaye Earns Call-Up
Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has officially unveiled his final squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, blending experience with youth as the 2021 African champions prepare to recapture the crown.
As expected, several familiar faces headline the list, with key members of the team that conquered Africa three years ago included across all departments. In goal, Edouard Mendy of Al Ahly in Saudi Arabia leads a strong goalkeeping unit, while captain Kalidou Koulibaly who plays for Al Hilal also in Saudi anchors a defence packed with experience and depth.
The midfield retains its balance of steel and creativity, with Everton’s Idrissa Gana Gueye and Pape Matar Sarr of Tottenham Hotspur among those trusted to control games, while the attack once again revolves around the star power of Al Nassr’s Sadio Mané, supported by Nicolas Jackson (Bayern Munich), Ismaïla Sarr (Crystal Palace) and Boulaye Dia.
The standout talking point, however, is the inclusion of 17-year-old Paris Saint-Germain forward Ibrahim Mbaye, who has been handed his first senior AFCON call-up after impressive performances for Le Parisian. His selection underlines Senegal’s commitment to youth development and signals confidence in the teenager’s potential to make an impact on the continental stage.
With a squad that blends proven winners and emerging talent, Senegal will arrive at the tournament as one of the clear favourites. Expectations will be high, but with depth, experience and youthful fearlessness on their side, the Lions of Teranga look well equipped for another strong AFCON campaign.
Find the full squad below
