The Senegalese duo of Sadio Mane and Kalidou Koulibaly are disappointed not to see their national teammate Eduardo Mendy in Ballon d’Or shortlist. The list for the Ballon d’Or is already out and it contains four names from Chelsea. But as per Mane and Koulibaly, it should have another Chelsea player name, Eduardo Mendy for his exceptional performance last season.
The Senegal goalkeeper joined Chelsea back in 2020 from Stade Rennais as the Blues looked for a replacement for Kepa in the goal. Signing Mendy last season proved to be a worth-it deal as the goalkeeper was one of the keys as Chelsea lifted the Champions League title. Mendy last season kept 25 clean sheets in all competitions out of 45 matches he played. And he is continuing to do so this season as he has 5 clean sheets in 10 games.
But Mendy’s exceptional performance in his first season at Chelsea couldn’t get him a place in the Ballon d’Or shortlist. Following which his national teammates Sadio Mane and Kalidou Koulibaly are disappointed not to see Mendy feature in the shortlist. Koulibaly said It’s a real shame that Edou isn’t one of them [on the list]. “He is the first African goalkeeper to win the Champions League. “We must continue to work and move forward. We have to do the double [the work] of some people to be well judged.”
While Mane also with the same disappointing feelings said “It’s unacceptable, I do not understand it”. For Chelsea, there are four names shortlisted for the Ballon d’Or which include names of N’Golo Kante, Jorginho, Mason Mount, and Cesar Azpilicueta. While current Chelsea player Romelu Lukaku is also on the list for his performances at Inter Milan last season.
Mendy seemed to chilled despite being left out of the Ballon d’Or shortlist
Apart from Sadio Mane and Kalidou Koulibaly, Eduardo Mendy himself commented on not being listed for the Ballon d’Or 2021. But he has a different view as he seemed to be chilled not having being nominated for the award.
Mendy said, Honestly I am already very proud to represent my country and be among the 10 best goalkeepers in the world,”. “In just one year [at Chelsea], it’s a very good thing. I’m not satisfied with that, I have a lot of ambitions but it’s already a good step.
However, Mendy has been nominated for the Yasin Trophy alongside some of the world’s best keepers. And he would surely look forward to lifting the trophy after missing out on the Ballon d’Or 2021.
Follow us on Twitter for regular football updates.
