Bayern Munich hierarchy has showered Sadio Mane with praise over his Ballon d’Or recognition, saying every team needs a Mane.
The Senegalese star finished second at the 2022 Ballon d’Or awards gala held on Monday. He also received the Socrates Award for his charitable work back home in Senegal.
INCREDIBLE HUMAN BEING
Bayern Board Member Hasan Salihamidzic had a fascinating way of describing the AFCON winner. He said Mane is an incredible human being off the pitch and an excellent player on it.
“Sadio Mane is an absolutely world-class player and is a unique character. He’s proven himself as one of the most impressive attacking players in the Premier League and Champions League,” he said.
He said the former Liverpool forward was a model of modesty, and this rubs off the rest of the squad.
“He’s already a very important part of our team. That’s why I’m delighted for him. Sadio deserves to be recognised as one of the best players in our game. Despite all the success, he’s always remained a humble guy, who looks after others. He feels responsible for others and supports them,” Salihamidzic added.
“That’s the reason why he received an award for his social and charity work. You want to have a player like him and with his qualities in your team. I’m convinced Bayern will have great moments in the future with Sadio, and Sadio with us.”
FINANCED A HOSPITAL
Bayern President Herbert Hainer and CEO Oliver Kahn sent their congratulations to Mane via the club’s website.
Hainer said: “Big congratulations to Sadio Mane for coming second in the Ballon d’Or. As well as his award for his social work. Sadio is a great person. We’re proud to have him playing for Bayern as of this season.”
Former Bayern skipper and goalkeeper Kahn said he was proud of the Senegal skipper.
“Second place in the vote for the best player in the world and an award for his social work. I’m delighted for Sadio Mane, big congratulations,” he said.
Mane has been rewarded for his investment in the development of his native village, south of Senegal. He notably encouraged equal access for boys and girls to the practice of football.
Mane has, in addition, financed a hospital and built a high school. He further promised to equip the football pitch in his native village with synthetic turf.
The native of Bambali is followed by Kevin De Bruyne (3rd), Robert Lewandowski (4th) and Mohamed Salah (5th).
The former Liverpool star further walked home away with the inaugural Socrates Award in recognition of his social work.
