Sadio Mane Once Named Ex-Liverpool Star El-Hadji Diouf as His Football Idol Despite Steven Gerrard Feud
Sadio Mane became one of Liverpool’s standout players of the modern era, earning widespread praise for his energetic displays during his six-year spell at Anfield.
The Senegalese forward joined Liverpool from Southampton in 2016 and played a major role in the club’s Premier League and Champions League triumphs under Jurgen Klopp. He scored 120 goals in 269 appearances before leaving for Bayern Munich in 2022.
However, shortly after arriving at Liverpool, Mane revealed a surprising choice when asked to name his football idol.
The former Southampton attacker selected El-Hadji Diouf, another Senegalese star who had previously played for Liverpool.
Mane explained that he had admired Diouf from a young age, particularly because of his performances for Senegal and his achievements at the 2002 World Cup.
The choice was notable because Diouf had a difficult relationship with several Liverpool figures, especially legendary captain Steven Gerrard.
Diouf joined Liverpool after impressing at the 2002 World Cup but struggled to establish himself at Anfield. He made 80 appearances for the club and scored just six goals.
Gerrard was particularly critical of Diouf’s attitude and commitment during his time at Liverpool. In his autobiography, the former Reds captain accused Diouf of being more concerned about himself than the club and questioned his desire to fight for Liverpool.
The relationship between the two former teammates remained bitter for years, with Diouf also publicly criticising Gerrard and questioning his achievements with England.
That history made Mane’s decision to identify Diouf as his football hero particularly intriguing, especially given Gerrard’s status as one of Liverpool’s most iconic players.
