Sadio Mane will not return for pre-season training at Liverpool until a later date, with Senegal having booked their place in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations.
The Reds star has been a talismanic figure for his country during this summer’s tournament, and following their dramatic 1-0 win against Tunisia in the semi-finals on Sunday, they have the chance to get their hands on the trophy.
Senegal advanced to the final courtesy of an own goal from Dylan Bronn in extra-time, with Mane in with a chance of securing international silverware having enjoyed an exceptional season at Liverpool.
However, as a consequence of his national team’s success, the winger will not return to Melwood for some time yet.
Mane will spend longer with the Senegal squad, and as such, have a later allocated holiday period than his teammates at Liverpool, meaning that he could miss the start of the Premier League season.
The Reds have a hectic schedule at the beginning of the campaign. They face a Community Shield clash with Manchester City, a UEFA Super Cup final against Chelsea, and Premier League outings with Norwich City and Southampton in the first two weeks.
