Sadio Mane Spotted Reciting Islamic Prayer at the Airport Ahead of Asian Champions League Debut

Sadio Mane Spotted Reciting Islamic Prayer at the Airport Ahead of Asian Champions League Debut

Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe
updated at September 19, 2023 at 8:25 AM
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  • Sadio Mane was seen reciting his Islamic prayers ahead of Al-Nassr's Champions League tie
  • The 31-year-old is a devout Muslim and participates in religious activities wherever he lands
  • Mane would hope to continue his recent goal-scoring heroics against Persepolis on Tuesday

Sadio Mane was seen engaging in Dhikr while awaiting his flight at the airport before Al-Nassr's AFC Champions League encounter against Persepolis on Tuesday, September 19.

Known for his deep commitment to his Muslim faith, Mane was photographed with his prayer beads, also known as Misbaha or Tasbih, as his team embarked on their journey to the Iranian capital of Tehran for their inaugural group stage match in Asia's premier club competition.

Sadio Mane, Al-Nassr, Dhikr, AFC Champions League, Persepolis, airport
Sadio Mane is a devout Muslim, who does not hesitate to perform his religious duties. Photo credit: @AlNassrFC_EN/Twitter urbazon/Getty Images
Source: Twitter

Mane recites 'Dhikr' at airport

In a photo seen by Sports Brief, the 31-year-old sat in an airport chair, serenely reciting his Dhikr as he nurtured his spiritual connection in preparation for the upcoming game with the Knights of Najd.

According to Islam Online, Dhikr is a flexible and important form of worship in Islam, following salah and Quran reading. It involves repeating praises to Allah or simply contemplating Him, allowing it to be done at any time and place.

Mane's form at Al-Nassr

Since his summer transfer from Bayern Munich, Mane has injected fresh dynamism into Al-Nassr's attacking line.

The Senegal international has impressively shouldered the goal-scoring responsibility previously dominated by his captain, Cristiano Ronaldo.

With six goals in six appearances, he maintains a remarkable average of one goal per game in the Saudi Pro League, trailing the current top scorer, Ronaldo, by a single goal, per Transfermarkt.

Mane mobbed by fans during Friday prayers

Sports Brief previously reported on the former Liverpool forward finding himself surrounded by enthusiastic fans as Mane arrived at a mosque in Riyadh recently.

The legions of fans, who were clearly thrilled to meet their beloved Senegalese idol, approached the reigning Africa Player of the Year for photos and autographs.

A video circulating on social media captured Mane graciously accommodating the group, who had gathered at the mosque for the customary Jumaa prayer.

Mane and Ronaldo's deadly partnership

Meanwhile, it's undeniable the Senegal international and his Portuguese teammate have established themselves as one of the world's most formidable attacking pairs.

The strong bond between the two superstars at Saudi Pro League giants, Al-Nassr has been truly exceptional so far, setting the new standard for on-field partnerships.

The combination of Ronaldo and Mane is being called one of the most prolific goal-scoring combinations globally, with a contribution of 17 goals in only six games.

Authors
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe photo
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe is a Ligue 1, Bundesliga, and La Liga editor with five-year experience. He previously worked with Sports Corna and 360SportsGH.
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