Edouard Mendy says he decided to end his international career because he felt he had completed his duty to Senegal after representing the country at every major tournament available to him.
The Al Ahli goalkeeper announced his retirement from international football a few days ago. In an interview with L’Equipe, the former Chelsea player explained his decision ahead of Senegal’s opening fixture in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
Mendy made 59 appearances for the Lions of Teranga, played at two World Cups and featured in three Africa Cup of Nations finals. He believes the timing was right to step away from the national team.
“My thinking began after winning the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, and it continued until after the World Cup,” Mendy 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, you could say, two and a half Africa Cup of Nations, because unfortunately I was injured during the first one.
“I was fortunate to be crowned champion twice after taking part in three editions. I felt I had fulfilled my duty and had played a role in passing things on. I was very close to the new generation and helped prepare them as well as possible for the challenges ahead.”
Mendy had been one of the senior figures in the Senegal squad alongside Sadio Mane, Idrissa Gana Gueye and Kalidou Koulibaly. Before making his decision, he also spoke to new Senegal manager Patrick Vieira about the next phase of the national team’s development.
Vieira contacted Mendy to outline his plans and explain the role he wanted the goalkeeper to play. Mendy said he was moved by the proposal but did not want to begin another cycle if he believed there was a strong possibility he would not see it through.
“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. He is Patrick Vieira, a great player. I explained my own view and my decision to him. He still tried to persuade me, and I asked him for some time to think.
“I did not want to begin another cycle with this group knowing there was a strong chance I would not finish it. I preferred the new group to be put together quickly and to find its bearings, without my decision to retire or not causing any disruption to the national team.”