Senegal midfielder Idrissa Gana Gueye has downplayed speculation that Sadio Mané is set to step away from the Africa Cup of Nations, insisting that the future of the Lions of Teranga captain remains far from settled.

Reacting to reports suggesting Mané may be considering the ongoing tournament as his final AFCON, Gueye appeared surprised by the claims. “Oh really, he said that?” he asked, before offering a thoughtful perspective shaped by experience.

Gueye explained that any such remarks should be viewed in the context of Mané’s remarkable career journey. He suggested the forward may have expressed similar sentiments years ago — before the individual accolades, before Ballon d’Or recognition, and before fully understanding the magnitude of his influence on Senegalese football.

For the Everton midfielder, football is too unpredictable to make definitive long-term decisions, with form, ambition, and opportunity constantly reshaping a player’s outlook.

What remains unquestionable, Gueye emphasized, is Mané’s legendary status.

He described the Al-Nassr star as the greatest player Senegal has ever produced, whose impact goes far beyond goals and silverware. According to Gueye, Mané’s leadership and standards have transformed the national team and inspired a generation.

Rather than focusing on potential farewells, Gueye struck a hopeful tone, stressing that the squad wants Mané to continue leading them — and to help drive Senegal back to the top of African football.