Sadio Mané announces international retirement from Senegal national team

This decision, confirmed in a statement seen by Le Quotidien, follows the Lions' elimination from the 2026 World Cup. The announcement has been met with disbelief and an outpouring of emotion from fans on social media, with many expressing shock and gratitude for his contributions. Mané is considered more than just a player; he symbolizes a victorious generation for Senegal.

His legacy includes leading Senegal to their first Africa Cup of Nations CAN title in 2021 played in 2022, scoring the decisive penalty in the final against Egypt. He also guided the Lions to a second consecutive CAN victory in 2025 in Morocco, solidifying Senegal's dominance in African football. Mané is the first Senegalese player to win the African Player of the Year award twice, following El Hadji Diouf.

He also contributed to memorable World Cup qualifications and victories. Beyond his on-field achievements, Mané has been an exceptional ambassador for Senegal, embodying humility, social commitment, and patriotism, which has brought pride and visibility to the nation internationally. He instilled a collective belief that Senegal could compete with the best teams globally.

Although Mané had hinted during the CAN in Morocco that it would be his last, many fans did not believe it, finding the idea of a national team without him inconceivable. His departure leaves an