Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye has explained his decision to step away from international football, saying he will not return to the national team while the current coaching staff remains in charge.
The Villarreal player issued a statement on his social media accounts on 7 July following Senegal’s elimination from the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the Teranga Lions were knocked out by Belgium.
His announcement came after criticism of his initial decision, prompting the midfielder to publicly clarify his position and reaffirm his commitment to his country despite his stance on the current technical team.
In a message posted on Instagram, Gueye stressed that his affection for Senegal and the national side had not changed.
“I love my country and the national team more than anything. I know exactly what it means to wear our colors. I’ve always put the team above my personal interests and I will continue to do so.”
The midfielder also addressed the disappointment surrounding Senegal’s World Cup campaign, acknowledging the frustration felt by supporters after the team’s exit.
Senegal appeared to be on course for a place in the quarter-finals after taking a 2-0 lead against Belgium, only for the match to turn dramatically. Belgium recovered before eliminating the Teranga Lions, ending Senegal’s tournament in the Round of 16.
Reflecting on that outcome, Gueye admitted the players had fallen short of expectations.
“We let you down. You deserved better.”
The Villarreal midfielder, who scored twice in Senegal’s 5-0 victory over Iraq, said his decision to suspend his international career would remain in place for as long as the technical staff led by Pape Thiaw continues in its current role.
He also insisted that his actions were motivated by what he believes is best for football in Senegal rather than personal considerations.
“All my recent decisions have been made for the sake of Senegalese football, now and above all for the future.”
The statement suggests Gueye has no immediate intention of reversing his position despite the reaction it has generated.
His announcement has prompted debate in Senegal, where some have questioned his decision to withdraw from national team duty under the existing coaching staff.
According to the article, there have already been calls from some quarters for disciplinary action to be taken against the midfielder.
Gueye’s latest comments were intended to clarify the reasoning behind his decision after it attracted widespread criticism. While reaffirming his commitment to the national team and expressing his affection for representing Senegal, he maintained that he would not make himself available for selection while the current coaching staff remains in charge.
His statement comes in the aftermath of Senegal’s painful World Cup exit, with the team’s collapse from a two-goal advantage against Belgium continuing to dominate discussion around the national side.
As criticism of both the players and coaching staff continues, Gueye has made it clear that, despite his enduring loyalty to Senegal, his international future remains on hold under the present technical leadership.
