Senegal: Ismaïl Jakobs announces international retirement

Ismaïl Jakobs closes the chapter on his international career

Africa Today at 16:07

Add Foot Africa on Google

Senegal: Ismaïl Jakobs announces international retirement

The Senegalese left-back Ismaïl Jakobs has announced the end of his international career in an emotional message filled with gratitude. The defender now wants to devote more time to his club career and his family, after an adventure marked by unforgettable memories in the Lions of Teranga shirt.

Ismaïl Jakobs is closing the chapter on his career with the Senegal national team. In a personal message, the defender reflected on his international journey, his attachment to Senegal and the moments that marked his adventure with the Lions.

Born in Germany, the player chose to represent Senegal, his father's country of origin. The decision allowed him to fulfil a personal and family dream. He particularly highlighted the warm welcome he received in his country of origin, as well as the bonds forged with his teammates and the supporters.

“I joined the national team as a young boy, and I am leaving it as a man,” he wrote, referring to unforgettable memories and friendships that will remain etched in his memory.

A tribute to Senegal and the Lions

In his farewell message, the left-back also stressed his commitment in the national colours. From friendly matches to qualifiers, as well as the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup, he said he had always given his utmost for Senegal.

The defender said he was proud of the titles won, the collective successes and the journey he had shared with his teammates. He also recalled that defeats were part of the story, insisting that he had always defended the shirt with determination.

Ismail Jakobs annonce sa retraite internationale ! 🇸🇳

« Je suis arrivé en sélection nationale en tant que jeune garçon, et je la quitte en tant qu’homme. Avec des souvenirs inoubliables, des amitiés pour la vie et une gratitude qui restera à jamais gravée en moi.

Même si j’ai… pic.twitter.com/5looewsBW9
— 13football_com (@13footballC) October 28, 2026

Prioritising his club career and family

To explain this decision, Ismaïl Jakobs referred to the need to open a new chapter in his life. The player now intends to devote more time to his club career, his personal well-being and his loved ones.

“Time is precious, and some moments never come back,” he explained, summing up the reasons behind his decision.

This announcement marks the end of his journey with the Lions of Teranga, although his legacy within the national team will remain linked to the competitions he played in and the memories shared with the Senegalese public.

This article follows our newsroom’s editorial standards. To learn more about how we create and fact-check our content, see our Editorial Policy .