Iliman Ndiaye completes Senegal squad in Maputo despite ban

Senegal’s squad is complete in Maputo after Iliman Ndiaye arrived on Thursday evening, but the Everton winger will not feature in the opening match of the AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign. He is serving a two-match suspension imposed after the 2025 AFCON final.

Ndiaye joined the Lions’ camp ahead of Friday’s meeting with Mozambique, scheduled for 13:00 GMT. His suspension covers both of Senegal’s first two qualifiers this month, meaning his arrival strengthens Patrick Vieira’s group without immediately adding an available option on the right flank. Ismaïla Sarr is also suspended for the match against Mozambique.

The 26-year-old holds Senegalese and French citizenship and plays as a right winger for Everton. He moved to the English club from Marseille for €18 million during the 2024-25 season, after Marseille had signed him from Sheffield United for €17 million in 2023-24. His earlier pathway took him from Sheffield United’s under-21 side to the senior team in 2021-22, following his move from Hyde United in 2019-20.

Ndiaye’s arrival removes the final absence from Senegal’s camp in Maputo, but his competitive return must wait until he has completed the ban. Everton value the player at €55 million, while his current profile also includes a knee injury.