At the heart of the numerous controversies following Senegal’s elimination from the 2026 World Cup, Kalidou Koulibaly felt compelled to respond to accusations that he influenced the coach’s choices, particularly regarding Malang Sarr.

In a message addressed to Senegalese people, the captain of the Lions of Teranga categorically denied any involvement in decisions related to player call-ups or the exclusion of certain players. “I have never chosen a single player for a selection. I have never prevented a single player from joining the Tanière, nor requested the exclusion of anyone,” said the Senegalese defender.

Kalidou Koulibaly reminded that sports decisions are exclusively the coach’s responsibility. “The coach has always been the sole master of his sports decisions. Call-ups, team compositions, and technical choices entirely belong to him. We have always respected them,” he insisted.