Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye has announced that he will no longer make himself available for the national team while the country’s current technical crew remains in charge, following Senegal’s heartbreaking exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Villarreal star made the announcement in a strongly worded message on social media after Senegal surrendered a two goal advantage to lose 3-2 to Belgium after extra time in the Round of 32. The defeat marked a bitter end to the Teranga Lions’ World Cup campaign and has sparked fresh questions over the team’s leadership and tactical decisions. (Reuters)
Gueye, who was one of Senegal’s standout performers during the tournament, said he would speak in greater detail about the team’s elimination at a later time but confirmed that he was taking an indefinite break from international football as long as the current coaching staff remains in place. His decision is widely seen as a direct expression of frustration with head coach Pape Thiaw and his backroom team...READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
Senegal appeared to be cruising into the Round of 16 after goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr gave them a comfortable two goal lead. However, Belgium mounted a dramatic comeback in the closing minutes through Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans to force extra time before Tielemans converted a late penalty, awarded after a VAR review, to complete a stunning turnaround. Gueye had been substituted shortly after the hour mark before the collapse unfolded.
The 27 year old midfielder had enjoyed an impressive tournament, scoring twice in Senegal’s emphatic 5-0 victory over Iraq during the group stage and emerging as one of the team’s most influential players. His decision to step away from international duty now raises uncertainty over his future with the national team and adds to the growing pressure on Senegal’s coaching staff following the disappointing World Cup campaign.
