Cheikhou Kouyaté, the former captain of Senegal's national team, has announced his retirement from international football. The 36-year-old midfielder made the announcement on October 5, 2026, during an appearance on Walf TV. Kouyaté cited a congenital heart condition that has been detected during his medical examinations with various clubs. This condition has been a concern for several years, and Kouyaté has decided to prioritize his health.
Kouyaté had a successful career, playing for top-tier clubs in England, including West Ham, Crystal Palace, and Nottingham Forest. During his time in England, he underwent regular medical check-ups every six months. Despite the warnings from his doctors, Kouyaté chose to continue playing, assuming the risks associated with his condition. He revealed that he had signed documents acknowledging the risks and taking responsibility for any potential consequences.
The Senegalese midfielder's condition was regularly monitored, but he continued to play, including a stint in Turkey. However, his Turkish adventure ended abruptly after six months without pay, leading to the termination of his contract and his return to Senegal. Upon his return, Kouyaté received an offer from Belgian club RSCA Anderlecht, which included a coaching opportunity.
Anderlecht's medical examination revealed the extent of Kouyaté's condition, prompting his doctor to advise him to stop playing football. After consulting with his loved ones and entourage, Kouyaté decided to follow the doctor's advice and retire from professional football. This decision marks the end of an era for Senegalese football, with Kouyaté having been an integral part of the national team.
Kouyaté's retirement was a result of his visit to Anderlecht, where he was set to join as a player-coach. However, the medical check-up revealed that his condition made it impossible for him to continue playing. Kouyaté had been a key player for Senegal, helping the team win the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations.
The 36-year-old champion of Africa in 2021 has decided to prioritize his health and end his playing career. Kouyaté's decision has been met with understanding, as it highlights the importance of health and safety in sports. His legacy in Senegalese football will be remembered for years to come.
Cheikhou Kouyaté's career spanned over a decade, during which he played for several top-tier clubs and earned numerous caps for Senegal. His retirement serves as a reminder of the risks associated with playing football, particularly for players with pre-existing medical conditions. Kouyaté's decision to prioritize his health sets an example for other athletes facing similar challenges.
Key points
- Cheikhou Kouyaté retires from football due to a congenital heart condition.
