Pape Gueye quits Senegal national team after World Cup loss

Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye, 27, announced he will step away from the national team while the current coaching staff remains in charge. The decision follows Senegal's 3‑2 extra‑time defeat to Belgium in the round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, after surrendering a 2‑0 lead.

Gueye, a Villarreal player who has earned 45 caps and scored twice in the group‑stage win over Iraq, posted on Instagram that he will return later but will not play under the present staff. Coach Pape Thiaw, in charge since December 2024, has been mired in controversy, including the overturning of Senegal's 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title.

The move adds to the disappointment surrounding Senegal's early exit and raises questions about the future of the squad under Thiaw.