Senegal are likely to be without Ismaila Sarr for their two CAN 2027 qualifying matches against Sudan on 12 and 16 November, leaving Patrick Vieira without another important attacking option.
The Crystal Palace forward has suffered a recurrence of the groin injury that ruled him out of Senegal’s previous international gathering, which was Vieira’s first in charge of the Lions of Teranga.
Sarr, 28, has won 87 caps and scored 23 goals for his country. His latest setback was confirmed by his club coach, Pierre Sage, during a news conference.
“For the moment, he is not able to play,” Sage said. He expects the player to return “after the international break”.
Sarr was initially expected to feature in the double-header against Sudan, which forms Senegal’s third and fourth qualifying fixtures for CAN 2027. His absence would deprive Vieira of a versatile attacking player as Senegal look to strengthen their position in Group J.
The former Senegal winger had already missed the previous squad because of the groin problem. His latest injury means Vieira will once again have to plan without him as the national team prepares for two matches against the Crocodiles of the Nile.
Senegal could also be missing Bara Sapoko Ndiaye. The 18-year-old midfielder, who has made four international appearances, underwent an appendectomy at Bayern Munich.
Ndiaye is not expected to be available for another two weeks, making it unlikely that he will be involved in the next Senegal gathering.
Senegal began their CAN 2027 qualifying campaign with a 1-1 draw against Mozambique on 25 September before recording a narrow 1-0 victory over Ethiopia four days later, on 29 September.
The Lions are second in Group J, behind Mozambique on goal difference. Two victories against Sudan would move Senegal significantly closer to qualification for the tournament.