Senegal defender Ismaïl Jakobs considering international football retirement after latest snub

Galatasaray defender Ismaïl Jakobs is reportedly considering bringing his international career with Senegal to an end after being left out of new head coach Patrick Vieira’s first squad.

The 27-year-old left-back was not included in Vieira’s selection for Senegal’s opening two fixtures in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, as well as the international friendly against Comoros.

According to reports in the Senegalese press, Jakobs has subsequently decided that he no longer wants to continue representing the Lions of Teranga at international level.

Jakobs has earned 33 caps for Senegal since making his international debut and has been part of the national team setup during a period of significant success for the West African giants.

However, neither the Galatasaray defender nor members of his entourage have publicly confirmed the reports about his international retirement.

The development comes shortly after Vieira took charge of the Senegal national team and began shaping his squad ahead of the country’s next competitive assignments. Jakobs’ omission from the former Arsenal and France midfielder’s first selection has now reportedly raised questions over his future with the national team.

Should the reports eventually be confirmed, Jakobs would become the latest experienced Senegal international to bring his Lions of Teranga career to a close.

His potential decision would follow that of veteran goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, who recently announced his retirement from international football after establishing himself as one of Senegal’s most important players during the country’s recent golden period.

For now, Jakobs remains a Galatasaray player and has yet to make an official announcement regarding his future with Senegal. Until the defender or his representatives confirm the reports, his international retirement remains unconfirmed.