Senegal international Sheikhou Kouyate has ended his football career at the age of 36 after doctors advised him to stop playing because of a heart condition he had lived with since birth.
The former midfielder revealed details of his condition, explaining that regular medical examinations during his time in England repeatedly detected the issue. However, he continued playing after accepting the medical and legal responsibility involved.
Why Did Sheikhou Kouyate Retire?
Kouyate decided to retire after undergoing a medical examination during the summer while considering an offer from Anderlecht to return as a player and also join the coaching staff.
The medical assessment ultimately led his doctor to advise him to stop playing football, bringing an end to a career that included years of competition in Europe and international football with Senegal.
Sheikhou Kouyate's Symptoms
Kouyate explained that his symptoms became more severe when playing at high altitudes or in hot weather.
He experienced intense pain during and after matches, although the pain would disappear after several minutes. He also suffered from painful cramps that could continue until the following day.
Why Did Kouyate Hide His Heart Condition?
The Senegal international said he did not tell his family or the medical staff of the Senegal national team about his condition because he feared being forced into early retirement.
Despite knowing about the issue and seeing it appear during medical examinations, Kouyate continued his professional career for years before doctors eventually advised him to stop playing.
Sheikhou Kouyate's Premier League Statistics
Kouyate enjoyed a lengthy career in the Premier League, making 296 appearances for West Ham United and Crystal Palace.
Nottingham Forest was his final English club, with his time in England continuing until 2024 before he spent more than a year without a club.
In September 2025, the Senegalese-Belgian player joined Turkish side Amedspor, but his spell with the club ended after a short period.
Sheikhou Kouyate's Senegal Statistics
At international level, Kouyate made 92 appearances for Senegal, scoring four goals.
His final appearance for the national team came in March 2024, when Senegal faced Benin in a friendly match.
Kouyate now closes the chapter on a long football career that included extensive Premier League experience and a significant international record with Senegal, with his heart condition ultimately bringing his playing career to an end.
How old was Sheikhou Kouyate when he retired?
Sheikhou Kouyate was 36 years old when he retired from professional football.
Why did Sheikhou Kouyate retire?
He retired after doctors advised him to stop playing because of a heart condition he had lived with since birth.
How many Premier League matches did Kouyate play?
Kouyate made 296 Premier League appearances for West Ham United and Crystal Palace.
How many international matches did Kouyate play for Senegal?
He made 92 international appearances for Senegal and scored four goals.
