Moustapha Mbow has expressed his pride and gratitude after being named in Senegal’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup by head coach Pape Thiaw.
The Paris FC captain earned his place in the Lions of Teranga squad following an impressive 2025/26 season in France, where he emerged as one of the club’s most consistent and influential players.
Mbow’s commanding performances in defence, leadership qualities and consistency throughout the campaign convinced the Senegal coaching staff to hand him a place in the squad travelling to the United States, Canada and Mexico this summer.
Reacting to the announcement, the defender shared an emotional message thanking those who helped him reach one of the biggest milestones of his career.
“I am immensely proud to have been selected for the 2026 World Cup,” Mbow said.
“This is the perfect moment for me to thank everyone who has supported me in achieving this goal. To my family, and to Paris FC as a whole ; our directors, my teammates and all the club’s staff — I am writing these few words today to express my deep gratitude following this emotionally charged 2025/2026 season.”
The Senegal international also paid tribute to the coaches who played important roles in his development during the campaign, particularly after entrusting him with the captain’s armband.
“A special thank you to Stéphane Gili, Antoine Kombouaré and your various staff,” he added.
“Your support, your high standards and, above all, the trust you have shown in me by entrusting me with the captain’s armband have touched me deeply.”
Mbow’s rise has attracted widespread praise both in France and Senegal, with the centre-back impressing not only through his defensive qualities but also his maturity and composure under pressure.
His selection is being viewed as a reward for years of steady progress and hard work as he prepares to experience his first FIFA World Cup.
The defender also made sure to acknowledge the support of the Paris FC fanbase throughout the season.
“Finally, a huge thank you to the Paris FC supporters. Now, let’s set our sights on the World Cup. With my deepest gratitude,” he concluded.
Senegal head into the tournament with high ambitions under Pape Thiaw as the Lions of Teranga aim to make another strong impression on the global stage.
For Mbow, the World Cup call-up represents the culmination of years of perseverance and development, as the Paris FC captain prepares for the biggest challenge of his career so far.
