Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira has revealed that Liverpool and Senegal captain Sadio Mane should be considered for the Ballon d’Or. according to The Arsenal legend, Sadio Mane scores more goals, defends, and is an all-around player so he deserves to be considered for the Ballon d’Or.
Sadio Mane has been tipped to share the Ballon D’or podium with Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema and club teammate Mohamed Salah this year. The Senegalese international had an impressive season with Liverpool.
Despite Liverpool losing the Premier League and the Champions League to Manchester City and Real Madrid respectively, Sadio Mane was at the forefront as Liverpool won the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup last season.
Mane also won the African Cup of Nations with Senegal and was voted player of the tournament. He was also instrumental as Senegal edged past Egypt in a two-leg World Cup play-off to book their spot at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The 30 years old Senegal international scored 30 goals in 62 appearances for club and country.
What did Patrick Vieira say?
In an interview with Wiw Sports, the former Arsenal midfielder said: “Sadio Mane is part of the new generation of attackers who know how to do everything.
“He scores goals, he knows how to defend, he knows how to run in-depth. He is a hard worker in the field. He is one of the modern attackers. For me, he should be considered for the Ballon d’Or.
“He is one of those great players who can win it. I saw him every weekend in the Premier League and for me, he is one of the great European strikers.”
Sadio Mane has been linked to a move to Bayern Munich this summer. There are reports that Sadio Mane has agreed on personal terms with Bayern Munich. what is now left is for Liverpool and Bayern to agree on transfer fees.
However, Patrick Vieira believes the onus lies on Sadio Mane to make the right decision concerning his future.
The Crystal manager added: “I think he has his head on his shoulders to make the best decision.
“Should he stay or go? It’s up to him to make that decision. But he is a player that I admire in relation to his talent as a footballer, but also related to his talent as a man.”
Sadio Mane has one year left on his Liverpool contract. Liverpool is reported to have valued Mane at € 50 million. A deal for Sadio Mane could be announced by the close of the month.
