World Cup 2026: Salah, Mané Miss Out As Five Africans Make Power Rankings

World Cup 2026: Salah, Mané Miss Out As Five Africans Make Power Rankings

Sampson Adedeji

Egypt captain Mohamed Salah and Senegal forward Sadio Mané have been left out of the latest FIFA World Cup 2026 top 50 power rankings released after the conclusion of the quarter-final stage, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The rankings feature five African players, with Morocco leading the continent's representation through Achraf Hakimi, Ismael Saibari and Brahim Díaz.

Senegal winger Ismaïla Sarr and Côte d'Ivoire youngster Yao Diomandé also earned places on the prestigious list.

The inclusion of the five players highlights Africa's growing influence at the tournament, while the omission of experienced stars such as Salah and Mané has sparked discussion among football fans.

At the top of the rankings are Argentina captain Lionel Messi, France forward Kylian Mbappé, England midfielder Jude Bellingham, England striker Harry Kane and Norway's Erling Haaland, who occupy the top five positions as the tournament heads into the semi-final stage.