Senegal captain Sadio Mané has announced his retirement from international football, closing out a remarkable 14-year career with the Lions of Teranga following Senegal’s Round of 32 exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup — a heartbreaking 3-2 extra-time defeat to Belgium.
In a statement published by Senegalese newspaper Le Quotidien, Mané paid tribute to the fans who stood by him throughout his career.
“Know that I sacrificed everything for this flag. I gave my all and always fought fiercely for our country,” he wrote, adding: “Your constant support has been the driving force behind my success.”
A Legacy Among Africa’s Greatest
The 34-year-old, who made his senior international debut in 2012, leaves the national team as one of the greatest players in Senegal’s history. He earned 130 caps and scored 54 goals for the Lions of Teranga, making him the country’s all-time leading scorer.
Mané was the talisman of the golden generation that delivered Senegal’s first-ever Africa Cup of Nations title in 2021, converting the decisive penalty in the final. He also played a pivotal role in Senegal’s contested 2025 AFCON triumph in Morocco — a result still under review by the Court of Arbitration for Sport — meaning Mané could yet retire as a two-time continental champion depending on the outcome.
Not Quite Goodbye To Senegalese Football
Although Mané had previously signalled that the 2025 AFCON and the 2026 World Cup would likely be his final tournaments in national colours, this latest statement makes his exit official as a player. He was clear, however, that he isn’t stepping away from Senegalese football entirely.
“Tomorrow, it will be my pleasure to put my experience at the service of the Nation,” he said, leaving the door open to a future role within the technical staff, on the coaching bench, or in the country’s football governing bodies.
Mané will continue his club career at Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, where he remains under contract until 2027.
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Mané’s retirement closes a golden chapter for the Lions of Teranga, with a new generation — including the likes of Lamine Camara, Nicolas Jackson, and Ismaïla Sarr — now expected to carry forward the foundation he helped build.