Hamburg: Mane, 34, made the decision after Senegal were knocked out of the tournament last week following a 3-2 defeat to Belgium after extra time. His retirement was announced in a message reported by Senegalese newspaper Le Quotidien. Reports on his international record differ slightly, with the figures provided stating that he ends his Senegal career with 130 appearances and 54 goals.

“I sacrificed everything for this flag. I always gave my best and fought with all my might for our country,” Mane said in an emotional farewell message.

The Al-Nassr forward also thanked Senegalese supporters for standing by him throughout his journey, saying their continued support had been “the driving force” behind his success.

Mane leaves the national team as one of Senegal’s greatest ever players. His biggest achievement came in 2022, when he helped Senegal win the Africa Cup of Nations, a historic triumph that cemented his legacy in African football.

At club level, Mane has also enjoyed a decorated career. He won the UEFA Champions League with Liverpool in 2019 before later joining Bayern Munich for the 2022/23 season. He currently plays for Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr, where he remains under contract until 2027.

Despite stepping away from international duty as a player, Mane said he hopes to continue contributing to football in Senegal. In his letter, he said he could serve the game in the future “within a technical staff, on the bench as a coach, or through working within administrative bodies.”