Sadio Mane is happy to be back playing for Liverpool after making his first appearance in the red shirt since the Champions League final.
Mane was lively coming off the bench in Liverpool’s 2-1 pre-season victory over Manchester City in New Jersey last night, and he scored a stoppage time winner after he converted the penalty won by Dominic Solanke.
“I’m very happy to be back. We had the World Cup and then a holiday and we are back. We’re very happy to be here now and we’re looking forward to the new season. We’ll try to do our best like always,” Mane told Liverpoolfc.com.
“I just took the ball [for the penalty] and the boys let me shoot. I want to thank them.”
Mane recently changed from the No.19 to No.10, and last night was the first time he got to wear his updated shirt.
“No.10 has always been my lucky number, so I’m happy to take it this season. But the more important thing is what I’m trying to do for the team and especially helping the team as much as I can to win games,” said Mane.
It wasn’t just Mane that brought Liverpool to life in New Jersey last night. Mohamed Salah also played his first minutes of pre-season, and he scored within the first minute of being on the pitch.
“Mo is always our top scorer and I’m very happy to be back with him. He scored a wonderful goal – I’m very happy about that and to start the season,” said Mane.
Liverpool’s final game in the International Champions Cup comes this Saturday against Manchester United, and Mane is looking forward to it.
“It will be a good game,” said Mane.
“I’ve always said if you want to be the best you have to beat the best. Manchester United are one of the best so I’m looking forward to this game. Friendly or competitive, a game is a game and they’re all important to me.”
