These 4 African players who should retire after the 2026 World Cup

The World Cup is set to be the final international challenge for several African football stars.

The 23rd edition of the world's most prestigious tournament will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026 in North America, featuring 48 nations.

Africa will be represented by 10 teams at the World Cup: Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, DR Congo, South Africa, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Senegal, and Cape Verde.

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Below is a list of four African players who are expected to announce their international retirement after the 2026 World Cup.

Riyad Mahrez (Algeria)

The Fennecs’ captain is considering dedicating himself fully to his club career with Al Ahly after the North American World Cup.

He hinted as much during a press conference on the sidelines of the last Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025).

At 35, Riyad Mahrez has seen some of his influence wane and even started on the bench during the Greens’ most recent friendly against Uruguay.

In 113 appearances for the national team, the former Manchester City star has netted 38 goals and provided 44 assists.

Sadio Mané (Senegal)

Just like Riyad Mahrez, Senegal’s dynamic winger has already announced he will not compete in the next Africa Cup of Nations in 2027, set to be held in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

At 33, Al Nassr’s talisman will aim to lead the Lions to a memorable run at the upcoming World Cup, hoping to bid farewell to the national team on a high note.

To recap, Sadio Mané boasts 124 international caps, with 52 goals and 28 assists to his name.

Cédric Bakambu (DR Congo)

All signs point to the Leopards’ striker announcing his international retirement after DR Congo’s World Cup campaign in 2026.

Now 34, Bakagoal wants to end his international career on a high, having been one of the key architects of his country's historic qualification for the tournament.

In 67 caps, Cédric Bakambu has scored 21 goals and delivered 6 assists.

Jean-Michaël Séri (Ivory Coast)

As his career winds down, the tireless Ivorian midfielder is unlikely to don the Elephants’ jersey after the 2026 World Cup.

At 34, the Grand-Béréby native is expected to focus on his club career with NK Maribor, where he is under contract until 2027.

The former Africa Sports player has made 63 appearances for the Ivorian national team, tallying 4 goals and 4 assists.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.

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