Vieira Challenges Senegal’s Young Stars to Step Up Without Mané

Senegal head coach Patrick Vieira has challenged the country’s emerging talents to embrace greater responsibility as the Teranga Lions begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign without Sadio Mané.

Vieira was speaking in Maputo on Thursday, on the eve of Senegal’s opening Group E qualifier against Mozambique at the Zimpeto Stadium.

While the coach acknowledged Mané’s influence on Senegalese football, he believes the absence of the experienced forward creates an opportunity for younger players to establish themselves on the international stage.

Vieira hails Mané’s influence

Mané had previously announced his retirement from international football, although recent developments have raised questions over whether he could reconsider that decision.

Vieira was full of praise for the former Senegal star, describing him as an outstanding example for the next generation.

“He is an exemplary player, one of the greatest players and a real role model for young players,” Vieira said.

However, the Senegal coach believes the national team has enough emerging talent to move forward.

“We have other players, especially young talents who have a lot of quality and a real desire to perform at this level. It will be up to them to seize this opportunity and show what they are capable of.”

Vieira rejects ‘favourites’ tag

Despite Senegal’s status as one of Africa’s established football nations, Vieira is reluctant to describe his side as favourites against Mozambique.

The former Arsenal midfielder believes reputation will count for little once the teams step onto the pitch.

“Being a favourite is a term that people from the outside usually use. Personally, it’s not a word that I particularly like and that I like to use.”

Instead, Vieira called for Senegal to approach the qualifier with humility, discipline and concentration.

“We must demonstrate our qualities with a lot of humility, seriousness and concentration to overcome this team.”

The coach added that his players understand the responsibility that comes with representing Senegal and must now translate their confidence into a strong performance.

Senegal begin AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign

Senegal’s Group E campaign starts with the trip to Mozambique before they travel to face Ethiopia on September 29.

The group also includes Ethiopia, with the teams competing for qualification to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be hosted jointly by Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.

For Vieira, the opening two fixtures offer an early opportunity for Senegal’s younger players to step forward and demonstrate that the team can remain competitive as a new generation begins to take on greater responsibility.