Ex-Liverpool and Senegal striker El Hadji Diouf tips Sadio Mane to win Ballon d’Or

Former Senegal forward, El Hadji Diouf, says Sadio Mane has what it takes to emerge as a Ballon d’Or winner if he keeps up his current level of performance.

Mane has been a key figure for Liverpool in the ongoing season having led Senegal to win the Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON].

He has also steered the Taranga Lions to book a place in the 2022 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted in Qatar later this year.

Diouf, who is in Ghana for Asamoah Gyan’s book launch speaking at a welcome event held at Number One Oxford Street lauded the Liverpool forward and insisted he is capable of winning the award.

“I would  love to see Sadio win the Ballon d’Or, I would love to see Ayew win it, but Benzema and Salah have had amazing seasons, so it’ll be tough.”

He added that if Mane focuses on playing everything will fall in place:

“I never thought about awards, just playing well and entertaining, and Sadio is like me and he will continue to do that. He has maybe 5 more years at the top and if he continues maybe the recognition will come”