Patrick Vieira will name his first Senegal squad as head coach this Friday, September 18, with up to ten new players in contention for a call-up. The announcement comes as the Lions, sitting third in their World Cup group with three points, prepare to host Mozambique on September 25.

An expected refresh

Following a round of 16 exit to Belgium (3-2) on July 1 and a record of one win and three defeats from their first three group games, Vieira inherits a team seeking stability. The French coach, who took charge this summer, appears keen to inject new energy by turning to a rising generation playing in European leagues. Goalkeeper Ismail Ka (20, AZ Alkmaar) is among the most talked-about prospects. The keeper, who represented the Netherlands at youth level, recently spoke of his attachment to Senegal. "I played for the Netherlands youth national teams and I have never been selected by Senegal." he said.

The centre of defence could also be reshaped with the potential inclusion of profiles like Ousmane Diao (22, Midtjylland), Sadibou Sané (22, AS Monaco) and Arouna Sanganté (24, Sevilla). Sané, signed by Monaco for seven million euros, and Sanganté, a former captain of Le Havre at age 21, would bring youth and physicality. At left-back, the experienced Malang Sarr (27, Neom SC), named in the Ligue 1 Team of the Season last term, is a serious candidate to bolster the flank.

Attacking additions

In midfield, Pape Demba Diop (23, Strasbourg), previously called up by Aliou Cissé in September 2023, is tipped to add his presence. Up front, the Lions could welcome new weapons. Issa Soumaré (25, Stade Rennais), who scored eight goals and provided five assists for Le Havre last season, offers a versatile option. Young striker Idrissa Gueye (19, Udinese), also summoned three years ago, and winger Asane Sow (20, FC Basel), in form with four goals and four assists in his last six official matches, round out this list of contenders.

This period of renewal is key for Vieira, who must quickly stamp his authority. The team, which scored eight but conceded six goals in the group stage, is searching for better balance. The upcoming home fixture against Mozambique will be the first test of this new era. Fans can track the squad's development and view the upcoming schedule on our fixtures page. The full list of eligible players is also available in our squad section.

With notable absentees like top scorer Ismaïla Sarr, who has four goals this season, Vieira's challenge is to find the right blend of experience and fresh talent. The makeup of his first squad, expected on Friday afternoon, will set the tone for his project.

Read the full report at Seneweb