Sadio Mané delivered one of the most unexpected announcements in African football immediately after lifting the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations trophy with Senegal.
The 33-year-old star revealed that the tournament would be his last with the Teranga Lions, stunning fans and shifting the focus from Senegal’s victory to the impending farewell of one of the continent’s most iconic players.
At the height of his career, Mané stated: “This will be my last Africa Cup of Nations. I will try to play in the World Cup this summer, but these will be my final international matches.”
A leader on and off the pitch
Mané’s influence during the final against Morocco extended beyond his performance on the field. Named the tournament’s best player, he played a pivotal role in convincing Senegal’s squad to return to the pitch after coach Pape Thiaw had ordered a walk-off in protest of refereeing decisions.
Video footage and eyewitness accounts showed Mané negotiating with French coaching legend Claude Le Roy and other key figures, ultimately inspiring his teammates to resume play with the rallying cry, “Let’s go back and play like men.”
Though the captain’s armband was held by Idrissa Gaye, and previously by Kalidou Koulibaly in other matches, everyone recognized Mané as the team’s true leader.
From humble beginnings to global stardom
Mané’s journey from the poverty-stricken village of Bambali, Sedhou, Senegal, to European football’s highest stages is a story of perseverance.
Losing his father at a young age, he fought to find a club that could nurture his talent, eventually reaching Liverpool in 2016 and becoming a global superstar.
Yet he has never forgotten his roots, funding a hospital, schools, internet access, and community facilities in his village, while providing monthly grants to families and supporting orphaned children.
A dual legacy of sport and humanity
Mané’s career is defined by success both on and off the pitch. He has won major titles with Liverpool, including the 2019 UEFA Champions League, and achieved historic success with Senegal, securing two AFCON trophies. Off the field, his philanthropic work has left an enduring impact on his community.
By choosing the AFCON final to announce his international retirement, Mané ensures his legacy is celebrated while leaving open the possibility that his final international appearance may come at the 2026 World Cup, marking the end of an extraordinary chapter in African football.
