Demba Thiam finds familiar faces on first Senegal duty

Demba Thiam says his first experience with Senegal has been made easier by the support of senior players and younger members of the squad.

The goalkeeper, who has spent much of his career in Italy, received his first call-up for the Lions and quickly turned to captain Kalidou Koulibaly for guidance. The pair have known each other since Koulibaly’s time at Napoli.

“My integration is going well. I already knew Kalidou Koulibaly and, in fact, he was the first person I called when I received my selection,” Thiam told FSF TV.

Thiam has also highlighted the role played by Lamine Camara and Jackson since his arrival in the squad.

“Since I arrived, players such as Lamine Camara and Jackson have helped me settle in, and there is a good atmosphere,” he said.

The goalkeeper also spoke about his relationship with Senegal manager Patrick Vieira, with their shared knowledge of Italian providing another connection. Vieira learned the language during his time at Inter Milan, while Thiam has lived and worked in Italy for much of his career.

“We get on well,” Thiam said.

The goalkeeper added that his years in Italy had left him feeling “a little Italian”.