Sadio Mane says all hope is not yet lost for Senegal at the World Cup.
Bayern Munich forward Sadio Mane has finally given his thoughts on Senegal's chances at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
The 30-year-old suffered an injury with Bayern Munich that ruled him out of the Senegal team to the World Cup.
Mane had a stellar year playing a key part as Senegal beat Mohamed Salah's Egypt to win the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cameroon.
He also was part of the Liverpool team that won the FA Cup and advanced to the Champions League final only to lose to Real Madrid.
Mane moved from Premier League outfit Liverpool to Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich and finished in second place to France striker Karim Benzema in the 2022 men's Ballon d'Or award.
Mane was expected to lead the Terenaga Lions as Africa's best hope for the World Cup but his injury now cats a dark cloud over the team.
Mane on Senegal at World Cup in Qatar
Ahead of the first group game against the Netherlands, Mane took to his official social media platforms to issue a statement.
According to Mane, there is still hope for Senegal to do well at the World Cup in Qatar despite his injury.
He said, "Good evening everyone, many of you have sent messages of support following my injury. Thank God, the surgery I had in the middle of the week went well.
"I wanna take this opportunity to thank and show my appreciation to you all. This Monday, our dear country will compete in the World Cup, Qatar 2022.
"I am sure the Lions will transcend and approach every game as a true finale. I am also convinced that all Senegalese will be in front of the small screen to support and encourage our valiant national team.
“Like all the unconditional ones in the Taniere, I am convinced that my teammates will fight as one man and as they are used to do in order to honor our dear 🇸🇳 Vive le Senegal, Go the Lions."
Mane will be absent as Senegal will aim to start their World Cup campaign on the right note against the Netherlands on Monday, November 21, 2022.