Edouard Mendy retires from international football, first challenge for Vieira at Senegal

Edouard Mendy announced his international retirement with Senegal on Sunday, depriving Patrick Vieira of his starting goalkeeper just weeks into his tenure. The 34-year-old goalkeeper, now playing for Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia, shared the news via a video posted on his social media accounts, accompanied by a simple message: “Thank you Senegal.”

Vieira had already been informed of Mendy’s decision before the official announcement. The new manager, World Cup champion in 1998 and European champion in 2000 with France, inherits a position to rebuild after the Lions of Teranga’s elimination in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, against Belgium. His predecessor Pape Thiaw left his post in the aftermath.

Mendy leaves behind a considerable record with the Senegal national team. Arriving in the squad in 2018, he was one of the major architects of Senegal’s first continental title at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. He was also present at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, won by the Lions before Morocco was designated winner on administrative decision.

The video published by the former Rennes and Chelsea goalkeeper traces his entire journey, from his debut in 2018 to the celebrations of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, testifying to the goalkeeper’s deep attachment to his national team. Many players and former players paid tribute to him in the comments.

Vieira must now choose between several candidates to occupy the Senegal goal. Mory Diaw and Yehvann Diouf are cited as the most serious contenders to succeed Mendy.