Former Liverpool forward Sadio Mane has unveiled his dream five-a-side team featuring players he has played alongside — and notably, his former teammate Mo Salah was not included.
As reported by Planet Football on Friday, Mane shared his picks during an interview with ex-Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand.
His selections were:
**Virgil van Dijk** – Mane’s first choice was the Dutch defender, whom he hailed as one of the greatest to ever play in the Premier League. He jokingly placed Van Dijk just after Ferdinand, saying, “He’s after you. It’s you and Van Dijk. You know it, I know it. This is no discussion.”
**Kalidou Koulibaly** – Mane added his Senegal teammate Koulibaly, with whom he lifted the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. Although they never shared a club, both are currently based in Saudi Arabia, with Koulibaly playing for Al-Hilal.
**Philippe Coutinho** – Describing Coutinho as “a special player,” Mane highlighted their season and a half together at Liverpool. He praised the Brazilian’s creativity, consistency, and overall brilliance during that period.
**Roberto Firmino** – Mane reserved strong praise for Firmino, calling him “exceptional” on and off the pitch. He described the Brazilian as the kindest footballer and human he has ever met, emphasising their close connection.
**Cristiano Ronaldo** – Completing his team, Mane selected Ronaldo, his current teammate at Al-Nassr. “He is an example for every footballer in the world. I have never seen another player like him,” Mane said.
