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Kalidou Koulibaly addresses Senegalese football controversies, calls for unity
via SeneNews1 min read
Kalidou Koulibaly, captain of the Lions, has broken his silence following the press conference by Abdoulaye Fall, president of the Senegalese Football Federation FSF. In a message on social media, the Al-Hilal defender called for unity and responsibility amidst revelations and controversies in Senegalese football since the Lions' elimination from the 2026 World Cup. Without naming Abdoulaye Fall or other officials, Koulibaly deplored divisions that he believes tarnish Senegal's international image. He urged an end to "ego wars" that divide and waste years of work and progress, emphasizing the need for all stakeholders to prioritize the general interest of Senegalese football. He stated that "the culprits are numerous" and that everyone must take responsibility with lucidity and humility, as the crisis affects not only football but also Senegal's image. Koulibaly warned that if the crisis persists, it will lead to regression rather than progress for Senegalese football, concluding with the proverb, "The Lion sometimes falls. But the Lion always gets up."
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
New Chelsea coach Xabi Alonso has indicated his intention to evaluate Senegalese forward Nicolas Jackson during the club's upcoming summer preparation tour in Asia. Alonso, who was officially presented as Chelsea's new coach, stated that Jackson will join the tour, providing an opportunity for the 25-year-old international to demonstrate his potential and secure a place in the team for the upcoming season. Jackson, who was on loan at Bayern Munich last season and recently participated in the World Cup, is under contract with Chelsea until 2033.
Dr. Abderahmane Fédior has responded to public questioning of his academic qualifications by Abdoulaye Fall, president of the Senegalese Football Federation FSF, regarding his role as the national team's doctor. Dr. Fédior revealed previously unknown tensions during the World Cup 2026, specifically concerning the integration of a new French medical team, including a doctor, an assistant, two physiotherapists, a dietician, and a mental coach, into the national team staff. He stated that he had proposed Dr. Babacar Ngom to reinforce the team instead. While acknowledging tensions, Dr. Fédior emphasized that they were not personal and that he had sought to integrate the new staff, even proposing a division of roles. However, a major disagreement arose with Abdoulaye Fall just hours before the match against France. Dr. Fédior, who had organized the designation of the sideline doctor for over ten years, was informed he would not be on the bench. He challenged this decision, stating that it was not the FSF president's responsibility to make such medical staffing choices. Dr. Fédior maintains that Fall's subsequent statements about him are false and that he has always maintained a respectful and diplomatic attitude.
Must ReadAbdoulaye Fall, president of the Senegalese Football Federation, expressed measured confidence regarding Senegal's appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport concerning the allocation of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Fall emphasized that the national team's recent results would not influence the upcoming decision. During a press conference reviewing the Lions' participation in the 2026 World Cup, he dismissed concerns that the CAS decision could be affected by the team's performance, stating, "There is no fear in that regard. What happened at the World Cup has no connection with the appeal filed with CAS. We are mobilized and awaiting the verdict." Senegal is challenging the Confederation of African Football's decision regarding the hosting of AFCON 2025. As the procedure is not expedited, a verdict is anticipated by the end of 2026.