Sadio Mané announces retirement from Senegal national team
Legendary forward Sadio Mané has announced his retirement from international football after a 14-year career with Senegal.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Author: Bryan Berlin
Sadio Mané has officially announced his retirement from the Senegal national team. The decision was revealed through the Senegalese newspaper Le Quotidien just over a week after the team's elimination from the 2026 World Cup in the Round of 16 against Belgium.
In his announcement, the forward expressed gratitude to the fans, teammates, coaching staff, and the Senegalese Football Federation for their support over the past 14 years. He described wearing the national jersey as the greatest honor of his life.
After much reflection, I have decided to end my international career. Wearing the Senegal jersey was the greatest honor of my life. I thank the Senegalese people, my teammates, the coaches, and everyone who was part of this journey. Sadio Mané
Mané retires as the all-time leading goalscorer in Senegal's history, having recorded 53 goals in 126 appearances. His tenure was a defining period for Senegalese football, as he spearheaded the generation that captured the Africa Cup of Nations and led the country to historic World Cup performances.
While he steps away from international duty, Mané will continue his club career with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia. His retirement signals a transition for the Senegal national team as they look to build a new generation without their long-time captain and attacking focal point.