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Al Nasr striker Sadio Mane has paid tribute to former Senegal coach Aliou Cisse after his dismissal honoring his leadership and contributions.
Two-time African Player of the Year Sadio Mane has sent an emotional tribute to former Senegal national team head coach Aliou Cisse following the coach’s unexpected dismissal.
Mane, who shares a deep connection with Cisse both as a player and national figure, took to his social media channels to honor the outgoing coach, acknowledging his significant contribution to Senegalese football.
Aliou Cisse, who was appointed head coach in March 2015 after a long stint as the national team captain, was dismissed by the Senegalese Ministry of Sports on Wednesday.
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The former Birmingham City and Portsmouth midfielder's removal though not entirely unexpected surprised many given his storied tenure with the national team. Cisse's departure marks the end of an era for the Teranga Lions, but as Sadio Mane's message indicates, his legacy is far from forgotten.
"You have been the positive embodiment of our team over the past decade. Your time on the bench of our national team will not be in vain," Mane wrote in a touching message, translated from French.
"We will remember you as a man who loves his country's flag and fought to raise our colors high. Thank you, Champion, for your service!"
Mane’s words capture the sentiment of many in Senegal, who view Cisse not just as a coach, but as a national hero. Cisse's influence on the team has been profound. Under his leadership, Senegal reached new heights, including winning their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in February 2022, following a victory over Egypt in a tense penalty shootout.
Despite leading Senegal to continental glory, the last few months had been difficult for Cisse.
His contract officially ended in August 2023, but he remained in charge for Senegal’s opening two qualifiers for the 2025 AFCON. A 1-1 draw with Burkina Faso and a narrow 1-0 win against Burundi were not enough to secure his future, as the newly formed government, under Sports Minister Bassirou Diomaye Faye, decided to part ways with the long-serving coach.
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This decision, however, came as a surprise, especially since the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) had expressed their desire to renew Cisse’s contract.
Tensions between the FSF and the Ministry of Sports, which pays the coach’s salary, may have played a role in the decision.
Cisse was preparing to announce the squad for Senegal’s upcoming double-header against Malawi when the news of his dismissal broke, further adding to the shock of his departure.
Cisse’s legacy, however, remains intact. In addition to Senegal’s 2022 AFCON triumph, he also guided the team to the 2019 final, where they finished as runners-up.
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His leadership helped establish the Teranga Lions as Africa’s top-ranked side for over four years, a remarkable achievement in a competitive football landscape.
Although Senegal’s defense of their AFCON title earlier this year ended in disappointment after a penalty shootout loss to Ivory Coast in the last 16, Cissé's impact on the national team is undeniable.
Mane, Senegal’s all-time top scorer, undoubtedly shares a deep bond with Cissé, and his farewell message echoes the gratitude felt by many of the coach's players.
"We will remember you as a man who loves his country's flag," Mane wrote, capturing the essence of Cisse’s dedication and passion for Senegalese football.
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