Cheikhou Kouyate has ended his football career after a distinguished spell with Senegal, during which he became an important figure for the national team.
The Federation senegalaise de football paid tribute to the former Lions de la Teranga midfielder on its Facebook page, describing his career as one “marked by commitment, leadership and an unwavering love for the national shirt”.
“Thank you for all these years of dedication and the emotions we shared. Your name will forever be etched in the history of Senegalese football,” the governing body wrote.
Kouyate won 92 caps for Senegal and scored four goals. He represented his country at several major international tournaments, including editions of the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup.
He was part of the Senegal side that won the Africa Cup of Nations in 2021, with the tournament held in Cameroon in January and February 2022.
His retirement brings to an end a significant chapter in the recent history of the Lions de la Teranga.