Super Eagles AFCON chances take a hit as Chelsea, PSG stars dump France for African rivals

Nigeria’s hopes of a deep run at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations may have just become a little more complicated.

Two highly rated French-born talents, Chelsea’s Mamadou Sarr and PSG’s Ibrahim Mbaye, have both switched their international allegiance to Senegal, strengthening the Teranga Lions side ahead of the 2025 AFCON.

At just 20, Mamadou Sarr is already showing signs of becoming one of Europe’s most exciting young defenders.

The Chelsea centre-back, currently on loan at RC Strasbourg Alsace, has been in excellent form this season in Ligue 1, catching the eye with his composure, aerial dominance, and ability to play out from the back.

Having represented France up to U20 level, Sarr has now chosen to play for Senegal, following in the footsteps of several dual-national talents who have opted to represent their African roots.

According to RMC Sport, he is expected to receive his first senior call-up from Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw during the next international break, as the Teranga Lions continue their preparations for both the World Cup and AFCON.

His inclusion will add significant defensive depth to a squad already boasting elite talents like Kalidou Koulibaly and Abdou Diallo, a prospect that could spell trouble for Nigeria should both nations meet in the tournament’s knockout stages.

Hot on Sarr’s heels, Paris Saint-Germain winger Ibrahim Mbaye has also pledged his international future to Senegal.

The 17-year-old, who has represented France up to the U20s, has featured 16 times for PSG this season, benefiting from injuries in the squad and using every minute to showcase his speed, flair, and creativity.

His decision to represent Senegal comes as the African giants aim to refresh their attacking line with youthful energy ahead of AFCON 2025.

With both Sarr and Mbaye now part of a rapidly evolving Senegalese setup, Nigeria’s Super Eagles, drawn in a tricky group with Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania, could face a far stronger opponent than expected if the two sides cross paths later in the competition.