Edouard Mendy retires from international football

Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 34 after eight years with the national team.

Mendy, who was born in France, made 59 appearances for Senegal. He announced his decision on social media, posting the words “Jërëjëf Sénégal”, meaning “Thank you, Senegal” in Wolof, alongside a video showing some of his memorable moments with the national team.

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Mendy made his Senegal debut in 2018 under coach Aliou Cissé and played a key role in the team that won the Africa Cup of Nations in 2021 after beating Egypt on penalties.

He was also part of Senegal’s squad at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where the team beat Morocco 1-0 in the final. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) later awarded the title to Morocco, while Senegal appealed the decision.

Mendy was part of a successful generation of Senegal players that included captain Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gana Gueye and Sadio Mané.

He represented Senegal at the 2022 World Cup and was also part of the team at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, where Belgium eliminated Senegal 3-2 in the round of 16.

At club level, Mendy has played for Marseille, Reims, Rennes and Chelsea. He currently plays for Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli.

Senegal, now coached by former France international Patrick Vieira, paid tribute to Mendy on social media.

The team said his career with the national side was measured not only by appearances, trophies and statistics, but also by the place he earned in the hearts of Senegalese people.