A win against Real Madrid could solidify Mané’s claim as the standout player of the year.

Sadio Mané’s 2022 campaign has been one to remember, with the Senegalese forward on the cusp of completing a truly remarkable year. While his Liverpool teammate Mohamed Salah confirmed his future at Anfield, Mané has kept fans guessing. Both players are out of contract in 2023, but Mané dropped a cryptic hint when he said, “Come back to me on Saturday, and I will give you the best answer you want to hear, for sure.” With Bayern Munich reportedly interested in his services, this Champions League final could be his final performance in a Liverpool shirt—though he also hinted at staying put.

For the 30-year-old, 2022 has already been a historic year. After helping Senegal lift the Africa Cup of Nations, Mané also netted the penalty that secured his country’s place in the World Cup, knocking Egypt and Salah out of the qualifiers. While Liverpool’s quadruple hopes ended in disappointment, the opportunity for Mané to claim a personal ‘quartet’ is still alive. His achievements, which include Champions League final goals in 2018 and 2019, could be capped by more silverware if Liverpool triumph in Paris.

Mané has been in sensational form, with many now considering him one of the best players of the calendar year. With the duopoly of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo gradually fading, this could be his moment to secure the Ballon d’Or, a feat no African player has achieved since George Weah in 1995. Mané reflected, “It would be even more special to win the Ballon d’Or. For an African player not to have won it since George Weah is sad for sure.”

What sets Mané apart is his adaptability. Originally starting as a winger, he shifted seamlessly between the left and right flanks at Liverpool, and now, as the club’s primary striker, he has thrived in this new role. He remarked, “I don’t mind what position I play. I’m happy to help the team. Football is about joy, and I enjoy the moment.”

Mané has been Liverpool’s top scorer since returning from international duty, even as Roberto Firmino, the team’s usual ‘false nine,’ has struggled with injuries. Despite this, Mané speaks with great respect for Firmino, saying, “Bobby’s the best No. 9 I’ve played with. He can get back to his form, for sure.”

Ahead of the final, Mané was unbothered by the prospect of “revenge” against Real Madrid, despite his involvement in the controversial 2018 final. “It’s not in my mind to take revenge,” he said. “Real Madrid fully deserved that win. They were the better team on the day.”

Liverpool’s two finals this year have gone to penalties, and Mané has already made a name for himself in high-pressure situations. After converting crucial spot-kicks for Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup play-off, Mané was entrusted with the decisive penalty in the FA Cup final. Though his attempt was saved by Chelsea’s Edouard Mendy, Mané remains resolute. “There is a long story with Sadio and penalties, but I never give up,” he said. “I will score the decisive penalty again.”