Former Liverpool ace Sadio Mane has been given the green light to exit Al-Nassr this summer, as the Saudi Arabian club eyes a high-profile replacement.
Mane’s departure from Anfield, following their Champions League final loss in 2022, marked the beginning of a challenging period for the player.
Despite being a key figure in one of Europe’s most formidable attacks during his time with the Reds, Mane has struggled to replicate that form since leaving the UK.
His stint at Bayern Munich was short-lived, and now, after two seasons playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, he’s been told he can seek a new challenge.
The club’s decision comes amidst restrictions on the number of foreign players allowed in a team, and they have set their sights on Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho, as report the Mirror.
Garnacho has had difficulty impressing Ruben Amorim, often finding himself benched during crucial matches, and a move away from Old Trafford could be beneficial for all involved.
While Mane’s ex-Liverpool colleague Luis Diaz was considered as a potential replacement, Arne Slot insists he wants to keep the player, despite Diaz admitting he’s yet to discuss contract terms with Anfield officials.
This leaves Senegalese star Mane potentially searching for a new club, and his struggles extend to the international stage too – he’s even requested to sit out Senegal’s upcoming match against England.
The Three Lions are set to host the African team at Nottingham’s City Ground in just a few days.
Mane took the decision to exclude himself from the upcoming friendly against England following a barrage of criticism and vitriol over his performance during Senegal’s recent qualifying matches.
The ex-Liverpool forward, feeling the strain of being the target for harsh critique after facing Sudan and Togo, decided not to participate in Friday’s game against the Republic of Ireland or the subsequent fixture against England, citing “personal reasons”.
His request was accepted by coach Pape Thiaw, albeit with some reluctance.
Thiaw expressed his stance on the matter, saying: “It is a personal decision that belongs to Mane – and I respect it as a coach. Sadio is a very important player for us.
“But I don’t coach one player, I coach 26 players, and so the most important thing is the collective. I have put together a squad of players who are available and ready to fight with pride for the national jersey.”