Pape Gueye has announced that he is taking a break from the Senegal national team following the country's dramatic exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while also expressing frustration with the current coaching setup.
The 27-year-old midfielder made the announcement on social media shortly after Senegal's heartbreaking 3-2 extra-time defeat to Belgium in the Round of 32 in Seattle. Senegal had led 2-0 until the 86th minute before a stunning Belgian comeback forced extra time and ended with a controversial penalty converted by Youri Tielemans in the 125th minute – the latest goal ever scored in World Cup history.
In his Instagram message, Gueye wrote: "I will come back later to talk about the elimination. But right now, I am announcing that, as long as this technical staff remains in charge, I will be taking a break from the National Team."
Gueye was one of Senegal's standout performers at the tournament. The Villarreal CF midfielder scored three goals and provided one assist during the campaign, including a Player of the Match performance in Senegal's 5-0 victory over Iraq in the group stage.
His decision has raised questions about the future of Senegal's national team and its coaching staff led by Pape Thiaw. Despite the painful exit, Senegal made history by becoming the first African nation to score 10 goals in a single FIFA World Cup tournament.
Whether Gueye's international break becomes permanent remains unclear, but his statement has sent shockwaves through Senegalese football just hours after one of the most dramatic matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
