GOOD LUCK CATCHING UP TO SADIO MANE

The Senegalese star helped deliver hardware to Liverpool - and then dreamed up new challenges for himself at Bayern Munich

-  Tyler R. Tynes

OUTSIDE THE RITZ Carlton on 22nd Street in the heart of Washington, US, stand soccer fans patiently sweating through the acrid sizzle of summertime in the District. Boys are begging to see a champion's first steps on American soil. They're waiting for Sadio Mané: the bubbly striker from Bambali, Senegal; an essential component of Liverpool's return to glory; and, now, a new member of Bayern Munich, winner of 32 Bundesliga championships.

In one corner a gaggle of uncles in loafers, visibly upset Mane's late, argue while puffing enough cigarette smoke to make my lungs start shadowboxing. In another, Germans ask locals who Bayern was playing. Some white boys have been here since work ended, FaceTiming their bros about the commotion, 'Oh, shit Drew!' one crows. 'Bayern Munich is in town!' Others are bar hopping until the club's bus arrives. A small crew is frantically tracking the team jet via smartphone.