Mauritania international El Hadj Ba retires after more than 25 years in football

Mauritania international El Hadj Ba has officially announced his retirement from football, bringing an end to a career spanning more than 25 years.

Ba began playing at the age of six with CSL Aulnay before embarking on a professional career that took him to several established European clubs. His journey included spells with Le Havre, Sunderland, Lens and Sochaux, before finishing with FC Nouadhibou.

The midfielder represented France at youth level, featuring for the U18, U19 and U20 teams. He later chose to play for Mauritania, making what he described as a heartfelt decision to join the national side.

In his farewell message, Ba thanked the president of the federation, Ahmed Yahya, for his confidence and for giving him the opportunity to represent the Mourabitounes.

As he brought his playing career to a close, Ba expressed his deep gratitude to his family, coaches and team-mates for helping him fulfil a childhood dream.

He also made clear that retiring from football would not end his connection with the sport, but instead marked the beginning of an entirely new chapter.