Senegal defender Kalidou Koulibaly has revealed that Sadio Mane is in constant touch with the national team at the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
The Teranga Lions all-time top scorer was ruled out of the tournament after suffering a leg injury earlier this month.
Mane’s absence was seen as a big blow to Senegal’s hopes of having a good outing at the Mundial and they started with a 2-0 defeat to the Netherlands in Group A.
Koulibaly, however, disclosed that Mane is communicating with the team virtually and it is having a positive impact on them ahead of their game against Qatar at Al Thumama Stadium on Friday.
“He’s always texting with us, always calling,” Koulibaly stated. “[He is] keeping the mentality high for the team. He’s an important player for us. We know the importance that he has for the team and we hope he will continue [to stay in touch]. When he speaks, all of Senegal listens.”
Edouard Mendy came under the spotlight against the Netherlands after dealing with the ball poorly in the goals scored by Cody Gakpo and Davy Klaassen.
Regardless, Koulibaly insists his Chelsea teammate is still an important player and sees no need to make a fuss about his errors.
“We’re brothers in arms. He’s an important player for us. It’s normal to go through difficult periods, but I think we’re making a mountain out of a molehill,” the former Napoli defender said.
“Edouard knows what he needs to do tomorrow, as do we. I don’t think we should be making a big deal about this. Everyone needs to be confident in our role; everyone needs to get stuck in.
“It is together that we are going to be able to overcome this hurdle. I am not worried.”
Senegal will need to get the better of World Cup hosts Qatar if they are to stand any realistic chance of progressing to the Round of 16, with a group game against Ecuador being the final hurdle.
