Mane apologizes for not attending the ‘Ballon d’Or’ ceremony

Liverpool star Sadio Mane has apologized for not attending the Golden Ball awards ceremony in Paris on Monday night, but he added he could be one of the contenders for the award next year.

27-year-old Sadio Mane was fourth in the competition for the Golden Ball, behind winner Lionel Messi, his Liverpool teammate Virgil Van Dijk and Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo.

In the wake of the crucial Premier League match against City rival Everton on Wednesday, Mane sent a video message explaining why he did not attend the ceremony.

He also predicted that this year’s winner could hand him the trophy at a ceremony to be held after 12 months.

“Hi everyone, I’m Sadio Mane. “I wish I had been there with you, but unfortunately I couldn’t find the reason for my agenda because I have a match this Wednesday.”

“I congratulate the winner and give him a task for next year. I’ll try to be there and maybe even raise the Golden Ball. Inshallah. See you soon, goodbye.”

Mane has been in good form this season as he finished with 22 goals last season. So far this season, he has helped Liverpool secure a run without a Premier League defeat.