Sadio Mané reveals time for international retirement after AFCON 2025 glory

Senegal star Sadio Mane has revealed the timeline for his international retirement after leading the Teranga Lions to the Africa Cup of Nations title in 2025.

Senegal were crowned AFCON champions following a hard-fought 1–0 victory over hosts Morocco in the final, which was played on Sunday evening at the Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

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

When will Sadio Mane retire from international football?

Speaking to beIN Sports, the 33-year-old addressed his future with the national team, saying:
“I will try to play in the 2026 World Cup and then I will retire from international football.”

Mane also spoke about his physical condition, highlighting the strength of his current league:
“The Saudi league is very competitive and very strong, people need to know that. It is one of the best leagues in the world.”

• Read more:
• Pan-Africa Football’s AFCON 2025 Team of the Tournament
• Senegal coach: “We gave the captain’s armband to Sadio Mané so he could lift the trophy”
• Mané the best.. CAF announces AFCON 2025 individual awards after Senegal’s triumph over Morocco

During the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Sadio played a decisive role in Senegal’s success, contributing five goals overall, with two goals scored and three assists, as he proved his importance to the reigning African champions.

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