Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye has announced he is taking a break from playing for his country, stating that he will not represent the national team as long as the current coaching staff remains in place.
Gueye, who plays for Spanish club Villarreal, made the announcement on social media following Senegal's elimination from the World Cup.
The 27-year-old featured in Senegal's last-32 tie against Belgium, a match where the team saw a 2-0 lead evaporate. Goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr had given Senegal the advantage before Belgium equalized late in the game. The match went into extra time, and Belgium secured their victory with a penalty in the 125th minute, which was converted by Youri Tielemans.
Gueye was substituted in the 66th minute of that match. He has earned 45 caps for Senegal and scored twice in the group stage. He stated that while he would address the team's elimination further, his decision regarding the national team was tied to the current management.