Senegal’s football star, Sadio Mane, recently shared his ultimate five-a-side dream team. Surprisingly, his former Liverpool strike partner, Mohamed Salah, was not on the list. Mane’s selections have sparked much discussion among fans globally.

Mane revealed his picks during a conversation with former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand. He kept his choices personal. Each player selected has shared a pitch with Mane, either at club or international level.

Mane’s Stellar Lineup

First on Mane’s list was Virgil van Dijk. The Dutch centre-back received high praise. Mane even placed Van Dijk in elite company, mentioning Rio Ferdinand himself. He told Ferdinand, “It’s you and Van Dijk. You know it, I know it. This is no discussion.”

Next, Mane selected his national teammate, Kalidou Koulibaly. They famously lifted the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations trophy together. While they didn’t play for the same club previously, both now feature in the Saudi Pro League. Koulibaly plays for Al-Hilal, and Mane represents Al-Nassr.

Philippe Coutinho also made the cut. Mane called the Brazilian “a special player.” Their time at Liverpool was short. However, Coutinho’s brilliance deeply impressed Mane. He praised Coutinho’s creativity and reliability.

Roberto Firmino, another ex-Liverpool teammate, was chosen next. Mane valued both his ability and his character. He spoke warmly of Firmino, calling him “exceptional.” Mane added, “I never saw a football player and a human as kind as Bobby in my life.”

Finally, Mane completed his team with Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo is his current teammate at Al-Nassr. The Portuguese legend received immense admiration. Mane stated, “He is an example for every kind of football player in the world. I have never seen another player like him, that’s for sure.”

Mane’s selections offer unique insight into the players he respects most. His decision to leave out former prolific strike partner, Mohamed Salah, is particularly notable.