Kouyaté confirmed his decision in a heartfelt message shared on social media, thanking the clubs, coaches, teammates, family members and supporters who accompanied him throughout his journey.
His announcement came days after he disclosed that he had lived with a heart condition since birth, revealing a personal struggle that had affected his career and complicated his attempts to secure contracts.
Kouyaté reveals hidden health battle
In an interview with Senegalese broadcaster Walf TV, Kouyaté explained that his condition had been monitored during his time in England, where he played for West Ham United, Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest.
The former midfielder said medical examinations repeatedly identified the issue, but he continued playing while accepting the risks involved.
He also described how the condition affected contract discussions, explaining that Nottingham Forest had initially considered offering him a two-year deal before opting for a shorter agreement after learning about his health situation.
The revelation offered a new perspective on the challenges Kouyaté faced during the latter stages of his playing career.
From Anderlecht to the Premier League
Kouyaté began his senior career in Belgium before establishing himself at Anderlecht, where he developed into a reliable defensive midfielder and won domestic honours.
His performances earned him a move to West Ham United in 2014. He subsequently represented Crystal Palace before joining Nottingham Forest in 2022.
At Forest, he made 36 appearances across two seasons, helping the club maintain its Premier League status following its return to the top flight.
After leaving England, he continued his career in Turkey with Amedspor during the 2025/26 campaign. That spell proved to be his final club experience before announcing his retirement.
A key figure in Senegal’s historic AFCON triumph
Kouyaté’s greatest international achievement came with Senegal’s victory at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, played in Cameroon in early 2022.
The former captain earned 92 senior international appearances and scored four goals for Senegal, representing his country at the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups and across several Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
His leadership, physical presence and experience made him an important member of the generation that delivered Senegal’s first continental title.
Kouyaté’s final appearance for the national team came in March 2024, although his contribution to the country’s recent football history remained significant.
Senegal pay tribute to former captain
Following the retirement announcement, the Senegalese Football Federation paid tribute to Kouyaté, praising his commitment, leadership and dedication to the national shirt.
The recognition reflected his importance to the national team and the generation that brought the country its first AFCON crown.
For supporters, his career will be remembered not only for his time in English football but also for his role in one of Senegal’s greatest sporting achievements.
A career comes to an emotional close
Kouyaté’s retirement marks the end of nearly two decades in professional football. His account of living with a heart condition throughout his career has also highlighted the personal challenges that can exist behind a player’s public performances.
At 36, the former Senegal captain leaves the game with a legacy that includes major club experiences, international leadership and a place in the history of Senegalese football.
His retirement closes one chapter, but his contribution to Senegal’s AFCON-winning generation will remain a defining part of his career.