Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy says he decided to retire from international football because he felt he had completed his responsibilities with the national team and wanted the next generation to begin a new cycle.
The Al Ahli goalkeeper announced his retirement a few days before Senegal began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, bringing an international career spanning 59 appearances to an end.
Mendy, who represented the Lions of Teranga at two World Cups and three Africa Cup of Nations final tournaments, believes the timing was right after years of involvement with the national team.
Speaking to French newspaper L’Equipe, the former Chelsea goalkeeper said his decision was shaped by his achievements with Senegal and his desire to ensure a smooth transition for the players coming through.
“My reflection began after winning the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, and then it continued until after the World Cup. It was the right time for me to stop, after having represented my country in every possible competition.
“I played in two World Cups, or rather two and a half Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, because unfortunately, I got injured in the first one.
“I was fortunate enough to win two titles after participating three times. I felt I had fulfilled my duty, that I had been involved in passing on my knowledge, that I had been very close to the new generation to best prepare them for future competitions.”
The 34-year-old had been an important figure for Senegal alongside established players including Sadio Mané, Idrissa Gana Gueye and Kalidou Koulibaly.
His international career included major tournaments and two titles, giving him a significant role within a Senegal side that has developed into one of Africa’s leading national teams.
Mendy’s decision also comes as Senegal begins a new phase under new coach Patrick Vieira.
The decision marks the end of an international chapter for a goalkeeper who became a key member of Senegal’s national side.
Mendy’s experience was also important beyond his performances in goal. He believes he played a role in sharing his knowledge with younger players and helping prepare them for future competitions.
That responsibility towards the next generation was one of the factors behind his decision to step aside.
For Vieira, the departure of such an experienced member of the squad comes as Senegal begins another stage under a new coach.
For Mendy, however, the timing represents the conclusion of a journey in which he believes he represented Senegal across every major competition available to him.
His 59 appearances, two World Cup campaigns and three Africa Cup of Nations participations form the record of a career that also brought him two titles with the national team.
With Senegal now beginning their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign, Mendy has chosen to leave international football rather than begin another cycle he did not expect to complete.
