Sadio Mané retires from Senegal team after 2026 World Cup exit

Senegal’s all‑time leading scorer Sadio Mané, 34, announced his retirement from international football in a statement published by Le Quotidien days after Senegal were knocked out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Lions of Teranga lost 3‑2 to Belgium in the round of 32 after extra‑time, surrendering a 2‑0 lead. Mané, who earned 130 caps and scored 54 goals for Senegal, said, “Know that I sacrificed everything for this flag. I gave my all and always fought fiercely for our homeland. Your constant support was the engine of my success.”

He added that he plans to stay with Saudi club Al‑Nassr until 2027 and would be ready to help Senegalese football in another capacity – as a coach, technical staff member or administrator. While many outlets reported the retirement as fact, several media later clarified that earlier rumors of an AI‑generated fake announcement were false, with Sport News Africa confirming no official retirement notice had been issued prior to Mané’s own statement.

Mané’s departure marks the end of a 14‑year international career that included leading Senegal to its first Africa Cup of Nations title in 2021 and a second continental triumph in 2025 (later stripped). His exit is a major milestone for Senegalese sport and will require the national team to rebuild without one of its most iconic players.