Thiaw defends Sarr's Senegal World Cup snub

Editorial team · Aggregated reporting · 22 May 2026 · 1 min read

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw has defended omitting Malang Sarr from the 2026 World Cup squad despite the defender's Ligue 1 Team of the Season nod. Thiaw cited squad balance and selection choices, revealing two phone calls with the former Chelsea player. Reports suggested some senior players opposed Sarr's inclusion.