Nasr’s Struggles Light Up Mane: The Unlikely Praise You Didn’t See

A Special Kind of Praise for the Senegal Star Amid Nasr's Wobbles.

What Atif Said

Abdu Atif, the former Saudi football star, said Nasr's recent misfires have, in effect, highlighted Sadio Mane.

During his appearance on the Al-Marma program on Al Arabiya, he stated that Nasr's downturns in Mane's absence have benefited Mane, whether fans praise or criticize him.

He added that while rivals varied, Mane is equally strong on defense and attack, giving his best spirit to the team, unlike stars who shirk defensive duties and settle for attacks.

He concluded that Mane does not consider such things and always puts the team first, making him balanced in attack and defense and willing to sacrifice for the team.

Impact and AFCON

Mane has not played for Nasr since the league resumed after the Arab Cup 2025, in December, due to his participation with Senegal in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Since then, Nasr has only one league win, four draws and three losses, dropping to second place, seven points behind leaders Al Hilal.

In contrast, Mane helped Senegal reach the Africa Cup final by scoring two goals, including one against Egypt in the semi-final, and providing two assists.

He also contributed to his team's progress on the continent.

If effort paid, Mane would be the league's richest signing.

Meanwhile Nasr's defense is so busy watching Mane, it forgot how to defend.