By Zuleihat Owuiye, Nigeria

Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has announced his retirement from international football after eight years of representing the Teranga Lions.

The 34-year-old former Chelsea goalkeeper made the announcement on Sunday, September 13, 2026, through his social media accounts.

Mendy shared a video montage highlighting some of his memorable moments with the Senegal national team and accompanied it with the message, “Jerejef Senegal,” which means “Thank you, Senegal” in Wolof.

Born in France, Mendy made his international debut for Senegal in 2018 under former head coach Aliou Cisse. He went on to make 59 appearances for the national team and became an important figure during one of the most successful periods in Senegalese football.

One of the biggest achievements of his international career came at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, where Mendy played a key role as Senegal defeated Egypt on penalties to win the country’s first AFCON title.

He also represented Senegal at the 2022 FIFA World Cup and remained part of the squad for the 2026 World Cup in the United States.

At the 2026 tournament, Senegal reached the round of 16 before suffering a 3-2 defeat to Belgium.

Mendy was also part of the Senegal team that won the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on the pitch with a 1-0 victory over Morocco. However, the result was later overturned by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), which awarded the title to Morocco. Senegal has appealed the decision, with the Court of Arbitration for Sport scheduled to hear the case on October 8.

During his international career, Mendy shared the dressing room with several key members of Senegal’s golden generation, including captain Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gana Gueye and Sadio Mane.

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

Following his announcement, the Senegal national team paid tribute to the goalkeeper, describing his contribution as one that would remain deeply remembered by the people of Senegal.

The team praised Mendy for his achievements, leadership and role in the history of the national side.

After eight years, 59 appearances and major international honours, Mendy now brings his Senegal career to an end, leaving behind a significant legacy with the Teranga Lions.