AFCON: Sadio Mané retiring because his body has spoken—Sow

A former technical director for the Senegal national team has differed with those who are urging Sadio Mané to reconsider his decision of retiring from international football.

They lifted their hero. He lifted the trophy. Senegal’s dream, led by Mané. 🇸🇳❤️#TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 pic.twitter.com/dulw6TCEY3

— TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 (@CAF_Online) January 18, 2026

Mané’s retirement talk gathered momentum after he captained the Teranga Lions to their second Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title on Sunday after beating Morocco 1-0.

Now Mama Sow, Senegal technical director between 2000 and 2006, has joined the debate surrounding the former African Footballer of the Year’s national team future.

“I completely understand his decision. Sadio Mané has given everything to Senegal. Beyond football, he is a true patriot. If he says this is his last final, it means his body has spoken,” Sow said as quoted by RTS.

Why Sadio Mané is retiring

The retired director added that the Premier League award-winner might have made the decision due to the demands of playing at the highest level.

The former Liverpool FC star has made it clear that he will hang up his national team boots after the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico set to get underway in June.

The forward hinted at his retirement before the tournament in Morocco. The 33-year-old reiterated his stance after winning the title at the Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Sunday.

Speaking to beIN Sports, Mané said: “I will try to play in the 2026 World Cup and then I will retire from international football.”

The former Bayern Munich player also praised the Saudi Pro League for being a physically demanding level of play.

“The Saudi league is very competitive and very strong. People need to know that. It is one of the best leagues in the world,” Mané said.

Mané was named AFCON 2025 Man of the Competition, winning the award for the second time in his international career after previously claiming it at the 2021 edition.

For his nation. Again and again. 🌟

Sadio Mané. TotalEnergies Man of the Competition. 🇸🇳#TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 | @Football2Gether pic.twitter.com/6cSWfEnX9T

— TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 (@CAF_Online) January 18, 2026