Senegal World Cup 2026 Squad — Players, Manager & Group

Sadio Mane — his final World Cup

Sadio Mane at 34 is back for what will almost certainly be his final World Cup. The former Liverpool and Bayern Munich forward has spent the last two years in Saudi Arabia at Al-Nasr and his form has been mixed. But Mane for Senegal has always been a different story — he raises his game for his country and the Lions of Teranga need him to do exactly that in a group containing France.

Pape Matar Sarr — the breakout star this tournament could produce

Pape Matar Sarr at 22 is the most exciting talent in this Senegal squad and one of the breakthrough stars of the Premier League season at Tottenham. His energy, technical quality and goalscoring from midfield has made him one of the most wanted young players in England. This World Cup could announce him to the world.

Nicolas Jackson — the Premier League striker leading the attack

Nicolas Jackson of Chelsea gives Senegal a genuine threat at the top of the attack. The 23-year-old had a strong season in the Premier League and his pace, directness and finishing make him a handful for any defence. His partnership with Mane on the left and Sarr through the middle could be genuinely dangerous.

Group I — one of the toughest groups in the tournament

Group I is one of the toughest in the tournament. France are one of the title favourites. Norway with Haaland and Odegaard are the dark horse everyone is talking about. Iraq are competitive and hard to break down. Senegal will need to be at their absolute best to qualify and a single poor performance could end their tournament.

Kalidou Koulibaly — still world class at 34

Kalidou Koulibaly at 34 remains one of the best defenders in world football when fit. The Al-Hilal centre back has the experience and quality to anchor Senegal's defence against the very best attacking players at this tournament including Mbappe, Haaland and potentially others in the knockout rounds.

AFCON champions targeting the Round of 16 and beyond

Senegal won AFCON in 2022 and are one of Africa's strongest nations. They reached the Round of 16 in Qatar and will be targeting at least that again. Getting out of Group I would be a major achievement and anything beyond that would be extraordinary.

Who is in Senegal's World Cup 2026 squad?

Full squad listed above including Sadio Mane and Pape Matar Sarr.

Who is Senegal's manager at World Cup 2026?

Pape Thiaw.

What group are Senegal in at World Cup 2026?

Group I with France, Iraq and Norway.

When do Senegal play their first World Cup game?

June 16 vs France at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey.

Is this Sadio Mane's last World Cup?

Almost certainly yes — at 34 this is likely his final appearance.