Mane Bemoans Lack Of Africa Ballon D'or Winners

Since the award scheme was instituted in 1956 only one African has claimed the honour, with former AC Milan and Liberia striker George Weah triumphing in 1995.

Saturday's UEFA Champions League final between Real Madrid and Liverpool could decide who takes home this year's Ballon D'or.

With 44 goals in 45 appearances across all competitions, Los Blancos striker Karim Benzema is the hot favourite this year.

Mane is also among the favourites, having won the Carabao Cup and FA Cup with Liverpool as well as an added bonus of winning the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal in Cameroon earlier this year.

Mane's teammate Mohamed Salah is one of the contenders as well after a campaign that saw him emerge as the Premier League's top scorer for a third time.

"It's true. If you guys say it, what can I say myself? Which is sad," Mane said of the lack of African recognition.

"For me, it would be even more special to have another bonus, which is the Ballon d'Or, and I would be the most happy player in the world.

"This cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, is one of the biggest for myself, it is the biggest trophy I have won in my life, and for an African player not to have won the Ballon d'Or since George Weah is sad for sure.

"Winning the Champions League is special. I have a chance to play it again, and we will do everything we can to win it, and then we will see what happens with the Ballon d'Or."