Cheikhou Kouyaté contraint de dire stop : « Le médecin m’a demandé d’arrêter le football »
Cheikhou Kouyaté has just turned a significant page in his career. After several years at the highest level and numerous appearances for the Lions of Teranga, the former captain of the Senegalese national team announced his international retirement this Monday during an appearance on Walf TV. This decision was motivated by a congenital heart condition that was regularly detected during his medical examinations while playing for his club.
Rigorous medical monitoring in England
Cheikhou Kouyaté played for a long time with this medical condition, despite repeated warnings from doctors during his checkups. From West Ham to Crystal Palace, via Nottingham Forest, the Senegalese midfielder says he was regularly monitored. "I suffered from this heart problem since birth. I played with it. In England, it was monitored every six months. I had medical checkups at West Ham, Crystal Palace, and Nottingham Forest. Every time I had the tests, the problem reappeared," he explained.
Risks taken with full awareness
Despite medical advice, Kouyaté had until now chosen to continue his career on the field, personally assuming the risks associated with his health condition. He admitted to having repeatedly signed waivers and insurance documents attesting to his responsibility. "The doctors always pointed out the problem to me, but I took responsibility myself. I signed the insurance papers stating that anything that might happen to me would be my responsibility," he revealed.
After his time in the Premier League, the Senegalese player had a brief stint in Turkey. This adventure ended prematurely after six months without pay, leading to the termination of his contract and his return home.
Anderlecht, the decisive turning point
Back in Senegal, Cheikhou Kouyaté still had opportunities to continue his career. The Belgian club RSCA Anderlecht contacted him, offering him a hybrid project that would allow him to play while beginning his coaching training.
However, the routine medical examination definitively changed everything: "Anderlecht called me to play there and also to start training as a coach. But after the medical examination, the doctor asked me to stop playing football," the former Lions player revealed.
After consulting with his family and friends, Kouyaté finally chose to follow this sound medical advice and put a definitive end to his career.
At 36, the 2021 African champion is bowing out after having left his mark on an entire generation of Senegalese football. A wise and prudent choice aimed at preserving his health after more than a decade at the pinnacle of world football.
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