Senegal captain Sadio Mané has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to one of the greatest careers in African football history.
The 34-year-old confirmed his decision following Senegal’s exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This decision closes the curtain of his international journey that spanned more than a decade.
Mané leaves the national team as one of Senegal’s all-time greats, having played a pivotal role in the country’s rise on the world stage. He famously helped Senegal win their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 2022 before leading the Lions of Teranga to a second continental crown in 2025.
He had already indicated earlier this year that the 2026 World Cup would be his final tournament with the national team, and has now made that decision official. Throughout his international career, Mané earned well over 100 caps, scored numerous crucial goals, and inspired a generation of Senegalese footballers with his leadership, consistency, and commitment.
Mané expressed gratitude to the Senegalese people, his teammates, coaches, and everyone who supported him throughout his international career, describing it as the greatest honour to represent his country.
He said,
“I will support the young players until the World Cup, and after that, it will be over. I thank the Senegalese people. I’m very happy. I gave everything in this match because I knew it was my last here. Representing Senegal has been the greatest honour of my career, and I leave knowing I gave everything for my country.”
Although he is stepping away from international football, Mané is expected to continue his club career.