Sadio Mané has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a remarkable 14-year career with the Senegal national team.
The 34-year-old forward, widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest players of his generation, made the decision following Senegal’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In a statement shared through Senegalese media, Mané expressed deep gratitude to the nation and its fans for their unwavering support throughout his journey, while also signaling his desire to remain involved in Senegalese football, possibly in a coaching or administrative role in the years ahead.
Mané leaves the international stage as Senegal’s all-time leading goalscorer, with an impressive tally of 55 goals in 132 appearances. His contributions helped elevate the Lions of Teranga to new heights, most notably captaining the side to their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations title in 2021.
In that memorable final, he stepped up to score the decisive penalty in the shootout victory, cementing his status as a national hero. He was named Player of the Tournament for his efforts and went on to claim the African Footballer of the Year award twice during his career.
Born in 1992, Mané made his senior debut for Senegal in 2012 and quickly became a cornerstone of the team. He featured in multiple Africa Cup of Nations campaigns, reaching the final on more than one occasion, and represented his country at the FIFA World Cup in 2018 and 2026.
His blend of speed, skill, clinical finishing, and leadership inspired a generation of Senegalese players and fans alike, transforming the national team into a consistent force on the continental and global stage.
