'I sacrificed everything' - Sadio Mane confirms international retirement in wake of Senegal's World Cup exit
Senegalese football star Sadio Mane has announced his retirement from international competition following his country's exit from the 2026 World Cup. Mane concludes a 14-year career marked by two AFCON titles and significant personal sacrifice for his national team.
Why it matters
Mane is a major cultural icon in African sports, and his retirement marks the end of a significant era for Senegalese football.
Senegal icon Sadio Mane has officially announced his retirement from international football following the country's recent elimination from the World Cup. The 34-year-old forward calls time on a legendary 14-year career with the Lions of Teranga, during which he earned 130 caps and famously secured continental glory.
Senegal football icon Mane has officially announced his retirement from the international stage following his country's elimination in the round of 16. The former Liverpool forward's momentous decision was made public via the Senegalese outlet Le Quotidien , just days after a painful 3-2 defeat against Belgium in North America.
In his poignant written farewell letter from Dakar, Mane demonstrated his humility by apologising to the Senegalese public for any shortcomings or disappointments during his time representing the national team.
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