Reports claiming that Sadio Mané had retired from international football have been dismissed after the announcement behind the story was found to be false.
The claim spread across social media following Senegal’s elimination from the 2026 World Cup, with several accounts presenting Mané’s departure as official. However, neither the forward nor his representatives have announced that his international career is over.
Fabricated statement sparks confusion
According to a correction published by L’Équipe, the retirement story originated from a fabricated statement circulated online.
The French newspaper had initially reported Mané’s retirement after relying on information published by Senegalese outlet Le Quotidien. It later removed the claim, apologised for the error and confirmed that the statement had not come from Mané or his entourage.
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L’Équipe reported that the false document may have been generated using artificial intelligence.
A separate fact-check by MyKhel also found no retirement announcement on Mané’s official social-media accounts or through the Senegalese Football Federation.
The outlet cited Senegalese journalist Malang Sané, who said neither Mané nor those closest to him were responsible for the statement.
Retirement had been expected after the World Cup
The rumour was considered believable because Mané had previously indicated that the 2026 World Cup could mark the end of his international career.
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Following Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations triumph in January, Mané confirmed that the 2025 tournament would be his final appearance at the continental championship. He nevertheless continued playing for Senegal and represented the country at the World Cup.
That earlier indication appears to have helped the false statement gain credibility, but it did not amount to an official confirmation that Mané had retired immediately after the tournament.
Mané remains a defining figure for Senegal
Whatever decision he eventually makes, Mané’s position in Senegalese football history is already secure.
He helped the country win its first Africa Cup of Nations title in 2022, scoring the decisive penalty in the final against Egypt. Four years later, he played a central role as Senegal defeated Morocco to become African champions for a second time.
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As described by CAF following the 2025 tournament, Mané was named the competition’s best player after leading Senegal through another successful campaign.
For now, however, reports that his international career has officially ended remain untrue. Any confirmation of his retirement will need to come directly from Mané, his representatives or the Senegalese Football Federation.
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