Rumors are swirling across the web this Wednesday evening as reports suggest that Youssouf Sabaly has decided to call time on his international career, a decision that could reshape the landscape of Senegalese football.
Born in France, Sabaly, after showcasing his talents in the youth ranks of the French national team, made the pivotal choice to represent the land of his ancestry, Senegal, in 2017.
“I am more of a Lion than a Rooster. When the coach (Aliou Cissé) decides to call me, depending on my performance, there will be no problem.
I had it last year and for personal reasons I said I preferred to wait. Now, I have found stability, so I can afford to plan for the national team,” he asserted, shedding light on his decision.
Debuting with the Lions of Teranga in October 2017, Sabaly quickly established himself as a key figure in the squad.
His contributions were notable in the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, followed by the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where he earned a spot in the competition’s dream team despite Senegal’s heartbreak in the final.
However, plagued by injuries, he was absent from the squads for both the 2021 and 2023 editions of the AFCON.
His last appearance for the Lions of Teranga dates back to September 12, 2023, in a match against Algeria.
Before donning the colors of Senegal, Sabaly had tasted success with the French U20 national team, clinching the U20 World Cup title.
At 31 years old, Sabaly’s decision to retire from international duty marks the end of an era for Senegalese football, leaving fans and pundits to reflect on his contributions to the national team and the legacy he leaves behind.
