7 African Footballers Who Could Retire After 2026 World Cup

As they reach the twilight of their careers, age, form, and competition from younger stars may lead them to hang up their boots. 

Here are seven African footballers who could retire from international duty after the tournament.

André Ayew has been one of Ghana’s most reliable performers for over a decade. With more than 120 international appearances and over 20 goals for the Black Stars, he has been a leader both on and off the pitch. 

Ayew has already hinted at the physical demands catching up with him, especially as he moves deeper into his thirties. Many observers believe that the 2026 World Cup could be a fitting stage for him to say farewell. 

If Ghana qualifies and performs well, Ayew would likely see it as the perfect way to end his illustrious international career, having represented his country in multiple World Cups and Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

Troost-Ekong has been a defensive mainstay for Nigeria, providing leadership and consistency at the back. Currently in his early thirties, Troost-Ekong has spoken about taking things one tournament at a time.

He has stated that he is focused on performing at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 World Cup before reassessing his future with the Super Eagles.

Troost-Ekong’s reading of the game, aerial strength, and calmness under pressure have been vital for Nigeria, but younger defenders are emerging, which could influence his decision to step aside after 2026.

If Nigeria qualifies, it is likely to be his last major tournament before retirement. The likes of young defender Benjamin Fredrick is already showing some huge promise and capacity to replace the captain, making the decision a bit easier.

Mané has been one of Africa’s greatest forwards of the modern era. The Senegalese star has dazzled in Europe with Southampton, Liverpool, and Bayern Munich, winning major trophies including the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League. 

By 2026, Mané will be well into his thirties, and after years of relentless football at club and international level, he may consider calling time on his national team career. 

While he remains an influential figure for Senegal, persistent injuries and the natural decline in pace that comes with age could make the 2026 World Cup his swansong.

A final World Cup appearance would be a fitting way for Mané to conclude a glittering international journey.

Salah has been Egypt’s talisman for years, guiding them to World Cup qualification and an Africa Cup of Nations final. 

The Liverpool forward will be in his mid-thirties by the time of the 2026 World Cup, and although his fitness levels remain high, the demands of international football may influence his decision. Salah has already cemented his status as one of Africa’s greatest players, and a final shot at World Cup glory could be the perfect stage to close his chapter with the Pharaohs. 

With younger Egyptian forwards emerging, Salah could choose to leave on a high after helping his nation compete at the highest level one last time.

Koulibaly has been the backbone of Senegal’s defence for more than a decade. Renowned for his strength, aerial dominance, and leadership, the centre-back played a crucial role in Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations triumph in 2022. 

By the 2026 World Cup, Koulibaly will be 35 years old. While defenders often extend their careers longer than attackers, the physical demands of international tournaments could push him toward retirement after the competition. 

Senegal has promising young defenders who will be eager to take over, making 2026 a logical exit point for Koulibaly.

Aubameyang has had a complex relationship with the Gabon national team, even stepping away from international duty at times. 

Nevertheless, his pace, movement, and finishing ability have made him one of Africa’s most recognisable strikers.

Aubameyang will be in his late thirties by the time of the 2026 World Cup, and if Gabon qualifies, the tournament could represent his last dance on the international stage. He has been a trailblazer for Gabonese football, and a final appearance at the World Cup would be a symbolic moment for both him and his country.

Onana, one of Africa’s finest goalkeepers, has experienced highs and lows with the Cameroon national team, including a brief retirement from international duty after the 2022 World Cup before making a return. 

By 2026, Onana will be in his early thirties, an age when many goalkeepers begin to contemplate stepping back from the international schedule to focus on their club careers. 

If Cameroon reaches the World Cup, Onana might view the tournament as the ideal stage to finish his international journey on his own terms, particularly after his past disputes and comebacks.