Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye has announced that he is stepping away from international football for the time being, citing concerns over the national team’s current technical leadership following the Lions of Teranga’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Gueye made the announcement in a post on Instagram, revealing that he would no longer make himself available for national team selection as long as the current coaching staff remains in charge.
The midfielder wrote that he would address the team’s World Cup elimination in greater detail at a later time, but confirmed his immediate decision to take a break from representing Senegal under the existing technical setup.
His statement comes in the wake of Senegal’s dramatic 3-2 defeat to Belgium in the Round of 32, a result that brought an end to the West African nation’s World Cup campaign despite an impressive group-stage performance.
Reports emerging after the defeat indicate growing frustration among sections of the Senegal squad over the tactical approach adopted during the knockout match against Belgium.
The concerns are believed to have intensified following the team’s inability to hold on after taking the lead, eventually crashing out of the tournament.
Gueye’s decision has raised fresh questions about the atmosphere within the Senegal camp and the future of the national team’s technical crew.
While the midfielder did not elaborate on his grievances, his public stance suggests deeper issues that could require attention from the country’s football authorities.
It remains to be seen whether discussions between the player and the Senegal Football Federation will lead to a resolution, or if further changes will follow in the aftermath of the team’s disappointing World Cup exit.
