The Villarreal midfielder announced his decision hours after Senegal’s dramatic World Cup exit to Belgium.

Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye has announced he is stepping away from international football until the country’s current coaching staff is replaced, intensifying scrutiny of the Teranga Lions following their heartbreaking exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 27-year-old Villarreal midfielder made the announcement on social media on Wednesday, just hours after Senegal squandered a two-goal lead to lose 3-2 to Belgium after extra time in a dramatic Round of 32 clash.

Gueye was substituted in the 66th minute with Senegal leading 2-0, a decision that has since come under heavy criticism after Belgium staged a remarkable comeback. The Europeans completed the turnaround with a controversial 125th-minute penalty, awarded following a VAR review.

Speaking after the match, Gueye dismissed suggestions that fatigue influenced his substitution.

“Physically, I was good,” he said, adding that the decision to replace him rested with head coach Thiaw.

Thiaw defended the substitution, insisting it was made due to player fatigue rather than for tactical reasons.

The Belgium match marked Gueye’s 45th international appearance for Senegal. He also played a key role during the group stage, scoring twice in the Teranga Lions’ 5-0 victory over Iraq to help secure qualification for the knockout rounds.

Gueye’s decision to suspend his international career adds to the growing pressure on Thiaw, whose future is now expected to come under increased scrutiny following Senegal’s painful World Cup elimination.

The Senegalese Football Federation has not yet issued a statement in response to Gueye’s announcement.

The development raises fresh questions about the direction of Senegal’s national team as one of Africa’s leading football nations begins assessing the fallout from another disappointing World Cup knockout exit.