Former Liverpool star Sadio Mane has unveiled his ideal five-a-side team featuring players he has lined up with over the course of his career — and the omission of Mohamed Salah has sparked interest among fans.
Mane shared his picks during a conversation with former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand, as reported by Planet Football on Friday. The Senegalese forward, now at Al-Nassr, highlighted a blend of Liverpool favourites, national teammates, and global icons.
His selections included:
Virgil van Dijk
Mane’s first choice was the Dutch centre-back, whom he hailed as one of the greatest defenders in Premier League history. He jokingly placed Van Dijk just behind Ferdinand in his personal ranking. “It’s you and Van Dijk. You know it, I know it. This is no discussion,” he said.
Kalidou Koulibaly
Mane named Senegal teammate Kalidou Koulibaly, with whom he lifted the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations trophy. Though they never played together at club level, the pair now ply their trade in Saudi Arabia.
Philippe Coutinho
Describing the Brazilian as “a special player,” Mane recalled Coutinho’s creative brilliance during their brief time together at Liverpool before the midfielder’s departure to Barcelona.
Roberto Firmino
Mane reserved some of his warmest words for Firmino, calling him “exceptional” on the field and incomparable off it. “I never saw a football player and a human as kind in my life as Bobby,” he said.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Rounding off his team, Mane selected Al-Nassr teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, praising the Portuguese star as a global example of professionalism and dedication. “I have never seen another player like him, that’s for sure,” he added.
Despite their celebrated partnership at Liverpool, Salah’s absence from the list has drawn attention — though Mane did not comment on the decision.
