Kalidou Koulibaly has hinted that the upcoming 2026 World Cup might be the last opportunity for Senegal fans to see him wearing the national team colours.

The 34-year-old centre-back made his debut for the Lions of Teranga against Namibia on September 5, 2015, and since then, he has accumulated over 100 caps for his country, often serving as captain.

Koulibaly secured his place in Senegalese history when he led Aliou Cisse’s team to their first Africa Cup of Nations title in February 2022, and he celebrated a second victory this year.

However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) recently stripped Senegal of the trophy, declaring Morocco the champions after ruling that Pape Thiaw’s squad had forfeited the final match by leaving the field for 16 minutes.

As he gears up to captain the Lions of Teranga once again at the World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, Koulibaly acknowledges it may be time to pass the torch to younger players after this tournament.

“I believe this will be my last World Cup; I can’t see myself playing when I’m 39,” he shared in an interview with the Senegalese website ‘Media Car’. “There are young talents eager to represent the national team, and they deserve their chance. We’ll see what unfolds after the World Cup.

“When the moment is right, we’ll hand over the baton. I haven’t completely made up my mind yet; I have a general idea, but we’ll just have to wait and see. I prefer not to dwell too much on the future, but it’s clear that I’m approaching the end of my journey.”