W'Cup: Mane's absence a big blow – Cisse

Senegal head coach Aliou Cisse has described Sadio Mane's absence from the 2022 FIFA World Cup as a big blow to the football world.

The 30-year-old Bayern Munich forward has been ruled out of the tournament after he sustained a knee injury in the Bavarians' 6-1 thumping of Werder Bremen on Tuesday, November 8.

The African champions are set to begin their campaign on Monday, November 21 as they take on the Netherlands in Group A.

Speaking ahead of the clash, Cisse noted that the entire footballing world is saddened by the absence of the reigning African footballer of the year.

"We are not just talking about Senegalese people but people around the world and the whole football family is saddened," said Cisse.

"He represents the African continent as well as Senegal," he added. "I have received phone calls from around the world.

"All coaches build teams around their best player, that is also the case for us. We have a strong team as well, with experienced and young players ready to rise to the challenge."