Senegal: Mané, Koulibaly... when transition becomes necessary for the "Old" Lions

Koulibaly on his last legs

Arriving at the 2026 World Cup carrying a thigh injury, Kalidou Koulibaly had a disastrous tournament. He was one of the worst Lions during Senegal's campaign, which ended in the round of 16, after handing victory (3-2) to Belgium.

But beyond the captain's lack of honesty—putting his own interests above those of the nation in order to play in this World Cup—his performances mainly showed that his time with the national team is coming to an end. Physically, Kalidou Koulibaly can no longer keep up and is continually dealing with physical setbacks. This is not insignificant.

At 35, the body of the African champion can no longer hold up, and it is high time to bring his international career to a close, especially since Senegal does not lack options in his position. His retirement would open the door for a new generation waiting in line to claim a spot in central defense.

Players like Mamadou Sarr, Nobel Mendy, or even Malang Sarr, left out of this World Cup, are already ready to take over. Since joining the national team on September 5th, 2015, Kalidou Koulibaly has given his all for Senegal, collecting 105 caps. Another tournament would be one too many for the legend he represents in the eyes of Senegalese fans.

Idrissa Gueye, the record-holder

The most capped player in Senegal’s history (135 caps, 7 goals), Idrissa Gana Gueye can also quietly pass the torch by stepping away from the national team. At 36, the former Everton midfielder proved indispensable during AFCON 2025 and the 2026 World Cup for the Lions, but his presence is holding back the development of some youngsters in the squad. In a sector where Lamine Camara and Pape Gueye represent the future, it is time for Gana Gueye to hand over the flame after faithfully serving the nation.

Edouard Mendy, racing against the clock

Goalkeepers often have longer careers than outfield players, due to the lesser distances they cover in each match. However, the accumulation of games over the years takes its toll and even though Edouard Mendy (59 caps), put in a convincing performance against France before being forced off in the second half, his injury departure against Norway is telling.

At 34, the European champion of 2021 is starting to feel the effects, and with a keeper like Yehvann Diouf (26) on the bench, the succession is assured, not to mention the rise of talents such as Assane Sarr, best goalkeeper of the recent U17 AFCON. Mory Diaw, at 33, is no longer a player for the future.

Sadio Mané, waiting on his promise

At the final whistle of AFCON 2025—where his leadership reached new heights—Sadio Mané promised that the 2026 World Cup would be his last competition with Senegal. At 34, the Al-Nassr striker, who only managed a single assist in 4 games at the 2026 World Cup, likely had his last appearances for Senegal against Belgium.

A man of his word, Sadio Mané should keep his promise and make way for a new generation ready to take responsibility. The all-time top scorer for Senegal (54) and the second most capped player (130 appearances), Sadio Mané has been one of the most loyal Lions throughout his career, and Senegal will be eternally grateful to him. This morning, the local press announced the retirement of "Nianthio," but he has not yet made an official statement.