Edouard Mendy: Senegal goalkeeper says ‘it was the right time’ to retire

Edouard Mendy says he decided to end his Senegal career because he felt he had fulfilled his duty to the national team and wanted to give the next generation the space to begin a new cycle.

The Al Ahli goalkeeper announced his international retirement a few days ago, bringing an end to a career in which he won 59 caps for the Lions of Teranga. The former Chelsea player represented Senegal at two World Cups and three Africa Cup of Nations finals.

Speaking to L’Equipe on the eve of Senegal’s first 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match, Mendy said he believed he had achieved everything he could with his country.

“My thinking began after winning the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, and it continued until after the World Cup,” he said.

“It was the right time for me to stop, having represented my country in every competition possible. I played at two World Cups – and, let’s say, two and a half Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, because unfortunately I was injured for the first one.

“I was lucky enough to be crowned twice after taking part three times. I felt that I had fulfilled my duty and that I had played a part in passing things on, being very close to the new generation and preparing them as well as possible for future challenges.”

Mendy had been one of the senior figures in the Senegal squad alongside Sadio Mane, Idrissa Gana Gueye and Kalidou Koulibaly. Before confirming his decision, he spoke with new Senegal manager Patrick Vieira about the direction of the team and the role he might have played in the former France international’s plans.

Vieira contacted Mendy to explain his project, his vision and the goalkeeper’s importance within it. Mendy said he was moved by the proposed role, but believed the new coaching team needed to build a group capable of remaining together over the long term.

“Patrick called me and explained his project, his vision and my importance within that vision,” Mendy said. “I was genuinely touched by the role he wanted to give me. This is Patrick Vieira, a great player.

“I explained my vision and my decision to him. He still tried to convince me, and I asked him for some time to think. I did not want to start another cycle with this group knowing there was a strong possibility I would not finish it.

“I preferred the new group to be put in place quickly, to find its bearings, without any disruption linked to whether or not I would stop playing for the national team.”