Sadio Mane speaks for the first time since he married his 19-year-old bride

Former Liverpool player, Sadio Mane has broken silence for the first time since he married his wife, who is reportedly aged 19 years old as he builds up to the African Cup of Nations.

The Senegalese international tied the knot with his reportedly long-time partner in a ceremony which is reported to have taken place in the capital of Senegal, Dakar on Sunday, January 8, 2024, which has sparked conversation amongst football lovers around the world.

The relationship is said to have been kept under wrap until their wedding ceremony. However, friends and family members of the couple attended the colourful event.

Mane said the congratulatory messages he got from everyone have kept him excited.

"Honestly, I am happy with the fact the president has congratulated me just as much as, well, I would say not just my teammates. I think that all the people have congratulated me and wished me luck so I am happy and I hope that it'll be okay."

Mane and Senegal arrived in Cote d'Ivoire for AFCON on Wednesday to finalise their preparations for the competition. The Terenga Lions will be looking to defend their title successfully but they must advance from their group where they have been paired with Gambia, Cameroon and Guinea.