Liverpool forward Sadio Mane, strongly linked with a move to Bayern Munich this summer, has opened up about his future, albeit in a more coy manner than people would have expected.
The 30-year-old forward from Senegal had told fans that he would reveal his decision after the UEFA Champions League final against Real Madrid, and he has finally broken his silence on the reports and rumours surrounding his departure.
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During the pre-match press conference ahead of the Senegal’s African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Benin, Mane was informed about a poll that found most people in Senegal wanted him to leave Liverpool.
“Like everyone else, I’m on social media and I see the comments. Isn’t it between 60 to 70 per cent of Senegalese that want me to leave Liverpool?,” the Senegalese forward quizzed reporters when informed about the poll.
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“I will do what they want. We will see soon! Don’t be in a hurry because we’ll see this together,” the 30-year-old added immediately afterwards, pretty much confirming his departure from the Merseyside club.
Mane’s departure has probably been in the works for some time as Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp had earlier neither denied, nor confirmed anything, saying, “Wherever Sadio will play next year, he will be a big player.”
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Since joining Liverpool in the 2016-17 season, Mane has been immense for the Reds, contributing 120 goals in 269 appearances for the club. The Senegalese was also an indispensable part of a squad that, over the past five years, have won the UEFA Champions League, the Premier League, the UEFA Super Cup, the FIFA Club World Cup, the FA Cup, as well as the EFL Cup.
While Mane missed out on a potential second Champions League trophy with the Reds this season, the Senegalese will be leaving Anfield with his head held high and with the cheers of fans echoing in his ears.