Cheikhou Kouyaté: Confidences from his loved ones about the sacrifices of the former captain of the "Lions"

At 36, Cheikhou Kouyaté is ending his career after 92 appearances for the "Lions," a victory at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), played in 2022, and a European career marked by stints at Anderlecht, West Ham, Crystal Palace, and Nottingham Forest. To mark this occasion, L'Observateur gathers testimonials from two men who knew him at different stages of his life: Khadim Ndiaye, his former teammate and former national team goalkeeper, and Mamadou Cissé, known as "Six," vice-president of Africa Foot, who knew him from his early days.

Mamadou Cissé reflects on the sacrifices made by the player while he was playing for ASC Yeggo and attending Blaise Diagne High School. At that time, the young Kouyaté considered interrupting his studies to help his ailing father. Six remembers his desire to "provide for his sick father." He had, however, encouraged him to continue his schooling while still playing. The young footballer's career then took off in Belgium, at FC Brussels and then Anderlecht, before his stints in England and Turkey.

Khadim Ndiaye, for his part, emphasizes the former midfielder's dedication to the national team. He describes him as a "model captain, exemplary, devoted to his country and his national team." "He did a lot and spent millions to ensure Senegal won its matches," the former goalkeeper testifies. He also highlights Kouyaté's efforts to maintain contact among the players, notably through phone calls and group chats, as well as his concern for consulting his teammates before making certain decisions.

Khadim Ndiaye also mentioned Kouyaté's support after his father's death, while he was competing with the "Lions". According to his account, Kouyaté attended the funeral before quickly rejoining his teammates.

Mamadou Cissé, for his part, emphasizes the former international's humility despite his success. "The boy I knew is the same one I see today. Success hasn't gone to his head; he's remained true to himself," he says. He also highlights his commitment to hard work, respect, and selflessness: "He's a boy who doesn't cheat. That's how we trained him: in respect for work, a dedication to work, and selflessness."

During an appearance on Walf TV (see video below), the former captain of the "Lions" explained that his definitive retirement stemmed from strict medical precautions. Suffering from a congenital heart condition monitored throughout his professional career, he opted for caution following a final medical examination at Anderlecht where the doctor formally advised him to hang up his boots.