Former Senegal star El Hadji Diouf has shared his thoughts on the potential inclusion of defender Malang Sarr in the Senegal national football team, acknowledging past concerns while leaving the door open for the player’s involvement.
Sarr previously suggested he was waiting for an opportunity with the France national football team, a stance that drew criticism from some Senegalese football figures. Diouf admitted that such comments can raise questions about commitment but emphasized that the player was young at the time and should be allowed the chance to mature and reconsider.
“Players who say they are waiting for the French national team have no place in the Senegal national team,” Diouf said. “But he was young when he said that, and we must remember that. Now he is an adult and he can make up for it.”
Despite the earlier remarks, the former forward insisted he personally has no issue with Sarr joining the squad if the technical team sees value in him. Diouf stressed that the final decision rests with the national team coach, especially given the depth of talent already available within the Senegal setup.
The former Liverpool forward also highlighted the prestige of representing the national team, saying playing for Senegal should be considered just as special as representing any of football’s traditional powerhouses. He pointed to stars such as Sadio Mané, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Idrissa Gueye as examples of players who have elevated the country’s football reputation, adding that sharing the pitch with such names should be a source of pride.